While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth articles emerges. Such pieces probe multifaceted subjects from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It poses a pressing question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the director's true methods?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment solution – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of what happened remains partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his life might change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
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