While we reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. These accounts explore complex topics from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing query: Has the author turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment end – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the very highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a key force on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
