Upon look back on the past year, a selection of remarkable in-depth articles shines. Such pieces explore multifaceted themes including political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While several of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This raises a key question: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A 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 grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many voters expected that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and is the director's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – up until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy country has become a significant force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of the events remains partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives