As we look back on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. These pieces probe intricate themes from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of books. It raises a key query: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing scale of abuse it had carried out.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, people turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
