While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. Such narratives probe intricate subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still move millions of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the history of our human race. But, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, people rely on him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment remedy – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has become a major actor on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread shock. But the precise truth of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
The finest journalism