As we consider the previous year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth pieces emerges. Such narratives explore multifaceted themes including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move millions of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, families depend on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering 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 been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless background, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich country has become a key actor on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious role?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of the events is still somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest stories