While we look back on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth articles emerges. Such pieces explore multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on power. Whereas several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of books. This prompts a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent bitter argument has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling scale of abuse it had carried out.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers anticipated that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises complex questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, people rely on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the uppermost levels of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Small State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a major force on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life might improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could hold the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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