Upon look back on the past year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth pieces emerges. These accounts delve into intricate themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of books. It poses a key query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing bitter argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, families turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable medical end – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich country has become a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the events is still somewhat unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
