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While we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories shines. These narratives probe complex themes ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.

A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country

A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on power. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to move millions of books. This poses a pressing query: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?

Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict

The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.

The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings

The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the story of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.

A UK Cult That Hid in the Open

One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing extent of exploitation it had carried out.

A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law

Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.

Shattering a Nation's Self-Image

A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?

The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes

From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, people depend on him to restore peace.

Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?

More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical end – until potentially now.

The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government

A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the highest echelons of the state.

The British Professional With a Dishonest Secret

With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.

The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub

An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious project?

An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle

Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.

Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case

What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?

An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret

When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.

A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women

When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of what happened remains partially shrouded.

The "Genius" of the Online Economy

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?

One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness

When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.

A International AI Race and a Pivotal Defection

In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may hold the key to which nation wins the global AI race.

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