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As we consider the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth pieces stands out. These pieces delve into intricate topics from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.

A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country

An author became known in the 1990s with scathing satires on autocratic rule. While several of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of copies. It prompts a key query: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?

Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War

The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only route out of prison was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still get him killed.

The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings

The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.

A UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had committed.

A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law

Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.

Breaking a Country's Self-Image

A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the director's own intentions?

The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains

From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore peace.

Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?

More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy

Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until possibly now.

The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government

A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of the state.

The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret

With his keen intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get suspicious.

The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub

An astonishingly rich country has become a significant actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?

A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle

Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?

An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning

When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.

A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women

When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise story of what happened remains partially contested.

A "Master" of the Attention Economy

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?

Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution

As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could turn around. I was sadly wrong.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection

In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.

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