While we look back on the previous year, a selection of remarkable in-depth articles stands out. Such narratives probe complex topics from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It prompts a key query: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the story of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing intense argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment solution – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich country has become a key force on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise story of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
