Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles stands out. Such narratives probe intricate topics from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
A Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing query: Has the author become an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the very highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant force on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter 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 Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the prospect that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life might change for the better. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
