While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories shines. These narratives explore intricate topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a key question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing bitter argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical end – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the very highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Center
An extremely rich country has become a major force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the secret to who wins the global AI race.
The best stories