Upon reflect on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories stands out. These accounts probe intricate themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on power. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. It prompts a key question: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of exploitation it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's true motives?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, families rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a major actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full truth of the events remains somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
