While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles stands out. Such narratives probe complex subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human stories.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with biting satires on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, people turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment end – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a major force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the events is still partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the reality that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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