As we consider the past year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth pieces emerges. Such accounts probe multifaceted subjects from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It poses a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only route out of prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she genuinely changed, and is the director's own methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the answers to who wins the global AI race.
The best journalism
