As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. Such accounts delve into intricate themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This poses a key question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now get him killed.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely changing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is she truly a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich country has become a significant actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full story of the events is still somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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