As we look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles emerges. These narratives probe complex topics including political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with biting satires on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is she genuinely changed, and is the director's own methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment end – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation might improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
