Upon consider the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. These pieces delve into multifaceted topics including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the story of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting heated controversy has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical end – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a key player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the events remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life could turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives