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While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. These pieces delve into complex subjects from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.

A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Nation

Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?

Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War

The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only way out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.

The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. But, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.

The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.

A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law

Numerous voters expected that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.

Breaking a Nation's Self-Image

A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's true methods?

The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes

From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to bring back order.

Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?

Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?

Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until potentially now.

A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics

A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the highest levels of the state.

The British Professional With a Dishonest Side

With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get uneasy.

The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub

An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a key force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?

An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Battle

Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.

Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case

What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?

An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret

When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.

The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women

When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures remains partially unclear.

A "Genius" of the Online Economy

He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?

Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution

As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his life could turn around. I was sadly misplaced.

The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection

In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

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