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While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories shines. Such accounts delve into complex topics ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.

The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country

A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. While several of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of books. It raises a key question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?

Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War

The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path out of prison was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may now get him killed.

The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins

The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting intense controversy has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.

The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.

The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law

A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.

Breaking a Country's Self-Image

A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?

The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains

From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, families rely on him to restore peace.

Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent medical solution – up until possibly now.

A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government

A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of government.

The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret

With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.

A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub

An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?

A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle

Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

During the Trial of a Tragic Story

How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?

An End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret

When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.

A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers

When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the events is still somewhat shrouded.

The "Master" of the Attention Economy

He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?

One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness

As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life might turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.

A Global 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 his home country. Now, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.

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