Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of remarkable in-depth articles stands out. These narratives explore intricate topics from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human stories.
A Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with sharp satires on power. Although many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent question: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to join the regime military. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the history of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment end – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of the events is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life might turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
