Upon look back on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces stands out. These narratives probe multifaceted themes from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This prompts a key question: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as 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 solution – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has become a significant actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of what happened remains partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
