As we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth stories shines. These narratives explore intricate topics from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the history of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the director's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest times, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the uppermost levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get wary.
A Small State That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich country has become a major force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of the events is still partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life could improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
The finest journalism
