Upon look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. These narratives probe complex topics including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the history of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing heated argument has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid 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 played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a significant force on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation could improve. I was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives