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As we consider the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces stands out. These pieces probe complex subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.

The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on power. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. This poses a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War

The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now cost him his life.

A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins

The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent intense controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.

The British Cult That Hid in the Open

One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.

The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law

A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.

Breaking a Nation's Myth

A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?

A Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains

From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.

Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?

Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition

Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective treatment solution – until potentially now.

The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics

A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of government.

The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret

With his keen mind and sterling background, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become suspicious.

The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub

An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?

An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry

Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story

How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?

An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning

When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.

The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women

When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of the procedures remains partially shrouded.

A "Genius" of the Online Economy

He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?

Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?

One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution

As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.

The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection

In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.

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