As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth pieces shines. These pieces delve into complex subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of copies. It prompts a key question: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter controversy has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
A great many voters anticipated 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.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she truly changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical solution – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full story of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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