While we reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. These narratives explore multifaceted topics from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It raises a key query: Has the author turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Many voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film following a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is she really a new person, and is the director's own methods?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his situation might turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
