While we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable in-depth pieces stands out. These accounts probe complex subjects including geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of books. It prompts a pressing query: Has he turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many followers anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of the events remains partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his situation might improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the global AI race.
The most impactful stories
