While we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional in-depth articles stands out. These accounts probe intricate subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has he become an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she really changed, and is the director's own motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich country has risen as a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
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