As we reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth pieces emerges. These narratives explore complex subjects from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It poses a pertinent question: Has he turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Record on International Law
A great many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is she truly a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has become a key force on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the precise truth of the procedures remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his situation might change for the better. I was sadly misplaced.
A International AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
