As we reflect on the past year, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces shines. These pieces explore intricate themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting intense argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment remedy – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the events remains somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
