As we reflect on the past year, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces emerges. These accounts probe multifaceted topics including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent heated controversy has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical solution – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has risen as a major force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the events remains partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the reality that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation might improve. I was devastatingly wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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