As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth articles stands out. Such narratives delve into intricate topics including geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author rose to fame in the nineties with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pertinent query: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the history of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A film following a repentant fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is she really a new person, and is the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the full truth of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. I was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
