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As we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable in-depth stories stands out. These pieces explore multifaceted subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.

A Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pertinent question: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?

Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War

The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still cost him his life.

The Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings

The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing heated argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.

The British Sect That Hid in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.

The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law

A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been strikingly mixed.

Breaking a Nation's Myth

A film following a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is she really a new person, and is the director's own intentions?

The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains

From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.

Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?

Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical solution – until perhaps now.

A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of the state.

An British Professional With a Crooked Secret

With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get suspicious.

A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital

An extremely wealthy country has become a key actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious role?

A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle

Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.

During the Trial of a Tragic Case

How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?

An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning

When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.

A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers

When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially contested.

A "Master" of the Attention Economy

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?

Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean

With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?

One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution

As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move

In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the secret to who wins the global AI race.

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