While we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional in-depth articles shines. These narratives delve into intricate topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, people rely on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas shape the very highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become wary.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread shock. But the precise truth of the events is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his situation might improve. I was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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