Upon reflect on the past year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth pieces stands out. These narratives explore multifaceted topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on power. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move vast numbers of books. It raises a key question: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – everything. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has become a key player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation could improve. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
