As we consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth articles shines. These pieces delve into intricate themes including political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of copies. It prompts a pressing question: Has he become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the history of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, people depend on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective medical end – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
