As we look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces emerges. Such accounts probe multifaceted subjects from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. This raises a key question: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only 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 exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the events remains partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was tragically wrong.
A Global AI Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
