As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories shines. These accounts delve into complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with biting satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It poses a pressing query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, families depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the uppermost levels of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a significant player on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of the procedures remains partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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