Upon consider the past year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories emerges. These pieces explore intricate topics ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal stories.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. This poses a key query: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex questions: Is this person really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, families depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the very highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a major player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
