As we consider the previous year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth articles emerges. These accounts delve into complex subjects from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still move millions of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – everything. In their stickiest times, families rely on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective medical remedy – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings influence the very highest levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a significant player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of the events remains partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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