As we look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. Such accounts probe intricate themes including political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the country, he still move millions of books. It prompts a key question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely rewriting the story of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling scale of exploitation it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film following a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person truly a new person, and is the director's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, families depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology shape the highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his life might change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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