As we consider the past year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth stories shines. These narratives delve into complex subjects from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may now cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she really changed, and is the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a key force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise nature of the procedures remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
