While we consider the previous year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth articles stands out. These narratives delve into complex themes including political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Although several of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may now get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is she really reformed, and is the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest hours, families rely on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical remedy – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a major actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest stories
