While we reflect on the past year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. Such accounts explore intricate topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It prompts a key query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group 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 shocking extent of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
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 – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself 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, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could improve. I was sadly wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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