Upon look back on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding in-depth pieces shines. These narratives explore multifaceted themes from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing question: Has he turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing bitter controversy has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many voters hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, families turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the very highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has become a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of what happened remains partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life could improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The best narratives
