While we reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. These narratives explore complex subjects including political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It raises a pertinent question: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. However, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is she really a new person, and is the director's true motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could improve. I was sadly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The finest stories
