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As we look back on the past year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth stories shines. These pieces explore complex subjects from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.

The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country

An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War

The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could now get him killed.

The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely rewriting the history of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.

A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight

One woman was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.

A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights

Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.

Breaking a Country's Identity

A film tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?

The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes

From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back normalcy.

Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?

Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective medical end – until perhaps now.

A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government

A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the uppermost levels of the state.

The British Professional With a Dishonest Side

With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become wary.

A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub

An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious project?

An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry

Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.

During the Court Case of a Tragic Case

How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?

An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning

When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.

A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers

When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of what happened remains partially contested.

The "Master" of the Online Economy

He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and given away vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas

With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?

One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution

When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation might change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the global AI race.

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