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As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces stands out. Such pieces delve into complex topics from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.

A Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country

A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on power. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It prompts a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?

Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict

The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now get him killed.

The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins

The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing bitter argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.

The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open

One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.

A Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law

Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been curiously mixed.

Challenging a Nation's Myth

A film following a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is she really reformed, and is the director's own methods?

A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes

From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.

Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment end – up until potentially now.

A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government

A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of government.

The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret

With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get uneasy.

A Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital

An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented project?

An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle

Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.

Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story

What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?

An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret

When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.

The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers

When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.

A "Mozart" of the Online Economy

He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?

Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean

With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to go?

A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution

When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life might improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.

A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection

In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.

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