Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. These accounts delve into multifaceted subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. While several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key question: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the story of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting bitter argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and is the director's own motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the procedures remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
