As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. Such narratives explore intricate subjects from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human sagas.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the story of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she truly changed, and is the director's true motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a key player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his life could change for the better. That hope was tragically wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
