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Upon reflect on the previous year, a selection of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. Such narratives explore intricate themes including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.

The Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country

A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the country, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent query: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War

The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.

The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins

The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. However, a faction was convinced. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.

The British Sect That Operated in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.

The Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights

A great many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the past year has been curiously mixed.

Challenging a Nation's Myth

A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?

The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes

From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people turn to him to restore peace.

Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment end – until potentially now.

A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of the state.

An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side

With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get wary.

The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub

An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?

An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle

Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story

How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?

An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret

When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.

A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women

When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of what happened is still partially unclear.

The "Master" of the Attention Economy

He's spent a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?

One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness

When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could turn around. That hope was sadly mistaken.

The International AI Race and a Crucial Move

In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.

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