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As we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. Such pieces delve into complex subjects from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.

A Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. It poses a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?

Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict

The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.

The Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings

The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.

A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open

One woman 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 Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights

Numerous voters expected that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.

Challenging a Nation's Self-Image

A film featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording poses complex questions: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?

The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains

From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to restore peace.

Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?

Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?

More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment end – up until potentially now.

A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of the state.

An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side

With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.

A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center

An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a significant force on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this unprecedented project?

An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry

Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.

During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story

How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?

The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret

When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.

The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women

When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise nature of what happened is still partially shrouded.

A "Master" of the Attention Age

He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas

With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they going to relocate?

A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution

As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his situation could improve. I was tragically misplaced.

The Global AI Competition and a Key Defection

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

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