While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. These accounts explore complex subjects from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still move millions of books. This poses a key query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the full story of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation could turn around. I was sadly wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
The finest journalism
