Upon reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories shines. These accounts explore complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It raises a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape prison was to join the government military. After fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a significant actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full truth of what happened is still somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the reality that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories