As we consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces emerges. These accounts probe complex topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a pressing question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of mistreatment it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment solution – up until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas influence the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full story of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
The finest stories
