As we look back on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. These accounts explore intricate topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This raises a pressing query: Has the author turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is she really a new person, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging moments, families rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment end – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has become a significant force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the events remains partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life might improve. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The best journalism
