While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth articles stands out. Such narratives explore multifaceted topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human sagas.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to move millions of books. It raises a pressing question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is she truly a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective treatment end – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the events is still somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation could improve. That hope was sadly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best narratives
