Upon reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth articles stands out. These pieces delve into complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical end – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. I was sadly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may hold the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
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