As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. Such pieces probe intricate topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell millions of copies. It raises a key query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person truly changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a major force on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the precise story of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his life might improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The finest narratives
