While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. Such pieces delve into complex subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal sagas.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on power. Whereas many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing query: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The resulting bitter controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the appalling scale of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, families depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the prospect that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
