Upon reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth pieces emerges. These pieces delve into multifaceted topics from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with biting satires on power. Although numerous of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It poses a key question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of prison was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might still get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of exploitation it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Many followers expected that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is she truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest hours, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical end – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a key force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact story of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful stories
