While we reflect on the past year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories shines. Such accounts probe complex subjects including political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as radically rewriting the story of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is she truly changed, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest times, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – 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. In the present day, his ideology influence the very highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of what happened is still partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might improve. That hope was sadly wrong.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
