As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth articles shines. Such narratives probe complex topics including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with biting satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only way out of prison was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent bitter controversy has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, people depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become wary.
A Small State That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined 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 killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of the events is still somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his situation could turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best narratives
