While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth articles stands out. Such narratives delve into complex topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still move millions of copies. This raises a key query: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The resulting intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, families turn to him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment end – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy country has become a significant player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the exact story of the events remains somewhat unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation could change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the answers to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
