As we look back on the previous year, a selection of remarkable in-depth articles stands out. Such pieces explore complex topics including political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the nineties with sharp commentaries on power. Although many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, families turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective medical remedy – up until possibly now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation might improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
