Upon reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces emerges. These accounts delve into complex subjects ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. While several 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 the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing heated argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical solution – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation could improve. I was sadly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
The finest narratives
