While we consider the past year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories emerges. These narratives explore intricate topics from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent intense argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich country has become a major force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
