Upon reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories shines. These pieces delve into intricate subjects including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with scathing satires on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a key query: Has he evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now get him killed.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the story of our human race. However, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical end – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the key to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
