Upon reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories shines. These narratives explore complex subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on power. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This prompts a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only route to escape prison was to join the government military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, people turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical end – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a major actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful journalism
