While we consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. Such pieces delve into intricate subjects from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now cost him his life.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent bitter controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich country has become a key player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still somewhat contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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