While we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth articles shines. Such accounts explore intricate topics from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. It raises a key query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might still cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical solution – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full story of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his life might turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
