While we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. These pieces probe intricate topics including political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It prompts a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could now cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the history of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the very highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full story of the events remains partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
