As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. These narratives explore multifaceted topics from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It raises a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film following a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own intentions?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely rich country has transformed into a key player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact story of what happened remains partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might improve. I was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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