As we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth pieces stands out. Such accounts probe complex topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a key query: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our species. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she genuinely changed, and is the director's true motives?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, families depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the highest echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a major actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the precise nature of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
The most impactful stories
