While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. These accounts probe complex topics from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. This raises a key query: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is she truly a new person, and what are the director's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
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 illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment end – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the full story of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his situation might improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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