Upon look back on the past year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth articles stands out. These accounts delve into complex topics including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human sagas.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. This prompts a key question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the history of our human race. But, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex queries: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment end – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the events is still partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might turn around. I was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the secret to who wins the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
