As we consider the past year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. These accounts explore intricate themes from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with biting critiques on authoritarianism. While many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. This prompts a pertinent question: Has he turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, families rely on him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a major player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the answers to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
