As we consider the year gone by, a selection of remarkable in-depth articles stands out. Such narratives explore intricate subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the history of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is this person really changed, and is the director's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Mediation Center
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a key player on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the events is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
