Upon look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth articles emerges. Such narratives delve into complex themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The resulting heated controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, families rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has become a significant actor on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the precise truth of the events remains partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation could turn around. I was sadly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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