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While we look back on the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth stories stands out. Such pieces probe complex topics including political machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal sagas.

A Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still move millions of books. It raises a key question: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict

The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.

A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings

The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the story of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.

A British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight

One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.

A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law

A great many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.

Challenging a Nation's Myth

A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?

A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes

From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.

Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?

Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective medical end – up until perhaps now.

A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government

A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of government.

An British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret

With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.

The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub

An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented project?

A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle

Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.

Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case

What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?

The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret

When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.

A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers

When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of what happened is still partially unclear.

The "Master" of the Online Age

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?

Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean

With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution

When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.

A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.

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