Upon reflect on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces emerges. These narratives probe complex themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal stories.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole path out of prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of what happened is still somewhat contested.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life might improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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