As we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. These accounts explore complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. This poses a key query: Has he become an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense argument has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective treatment end – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a key player on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
