Upon look back on the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces emerges. Such pieces probe intricate themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a key question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
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 the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts 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 latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of the events remains partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might improve. I was devastatingly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The finest narratives
