As we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth articles stands out. These narratives delve into complex themes including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. While many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It poses a key question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent heated argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and is the director's own methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, people depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a key player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of what happened is still somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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