While we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories shines. Such pieces explore complex subjects ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on power. While many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. It raises a pertinent query: Has he turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the story of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is she genuinely changed, and is the director's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest times, people rely on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get wary.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich country has risen as a key force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise nature of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation might improve. I was tragically wrong.
A International AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
