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As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. Such accounts probe multifaceted subjects including political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.

A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation

Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with sharp satires on autocratic rule. While several of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?

Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War

The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.

A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins

The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The resulting bitter controversy has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.

A UK Sect That Hid in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had committed.

A Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law

Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.

Breaking a Nation's Myth

A film following a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is she really reformed, and what are the director's own methods?

The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains

From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, people rely on him to restore peace.

Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?

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

Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.

A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government

A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of the state.

An English Professional With a Crooked Secret

With his brilliant mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get wary.

A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital

An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?

An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle

Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.

During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story

How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?

An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret

When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.

The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women

When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact story of what happened remains partially unclear.

The "Genius" of the Online Economy

He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean

With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?

A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution

As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation might turn around. I was sadly misplaced.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move

In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could possess the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.

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