While we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories shines. Such narratives probe intricate themes ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal stories.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a pressing query: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the history of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's true motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, families depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely rich country has risen as a key player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full story of what happened is still partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his life could improve. I was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful journalism
