While we look back on the past year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces emerges. These narratives probe intricate topics from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It poses a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the history of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is she really a new person, and is the director's own methods?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the events remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the reality that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life could change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best stories
