As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth articles emerges. These pieces probe complex subjects from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It raises a key question: Has the author turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the story of our human race. But, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she really changed, and is the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, families rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and impeccable background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the procedures is still somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest stories
