As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. These pieces explore complex subjects from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with sharp satires on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. It poses a key question: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the history of our human race. However, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the director's true motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, families depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the events is still partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
