As we look back on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces emerges. These pieces explore intricate topics ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of books. This poses a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole path out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the narrative of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is she truly changed, and is the director's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away enormous sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might improve. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial 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 secret to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives
