As we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. Such pieces explore complex subjects from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This prompts a key query: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous followers expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's true methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical end – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a key force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of what happened is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best narratives
