While we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. These narratives probe intricate subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing scale of abuse it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become wary.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the full story of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation might turn around. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The best narratives
