As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. These pieces delve into multifaceted subjects including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest times, families rely on him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment end – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich country has risen as a key actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of the procedures remains partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
