As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. These accounts delve into complex subjects from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film following a repentant con artist as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging moments, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective medical end – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the precise nature of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation could change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the secret to who wins the global AI race.
The most impactful stories
