Upon reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth articles emerges. These pieces delve into multifaceted themes ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's true motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich country has risen as a key actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the events remains partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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