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As we look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. These narratives explore complex subjects from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.

The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country

An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?

Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict

The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only path to escape prison was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.

A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the story of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense argument has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.

A UK Sect That Hid in the Open

One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling scale of abuse it had carried out.

The Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights

A great many followers expected that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.

Shattering a Nation's Myth

A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's true motives?

A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains

From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, families rely on him to restore peace.

Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?

Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective medical remedy – until perhaps now.

A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government

A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the highest echelons of the state.

The British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret

With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get uneasy.

The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center

An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major force on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?

A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Battle

Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.

During the Trial of a Tragic Case

How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?

The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning

When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.

The Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women

When details about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the events remains partially unclear.

The "Master" of the Attention Age

He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas

With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?

A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness

As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.

A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move

In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.

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