While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth articles shines. Such narratives explore multifaceted topics from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although many of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely rewriting the history of our species. However, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the director's own intentions?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy country has become a major player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his situation could improve. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial 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 hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest stories
