Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth articles emerges. Such pieces delve into intricate subjects including political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. It poses a key query: Has the author become an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still get him killed.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, people turn to him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective medical solution – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Mediation Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a key force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
