While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. These narratives delve into complex topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has transformed into a key force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of what happened remains partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might improve. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the answers to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives
