As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces stands out. These accounts explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. This raises a key question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting heated argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the uppermost levels of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of what happened remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life could improve. I was sadly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
