As we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. Such narratives delve into intricate themes including political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move millions of copies. It prompts a pertinent question: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may now cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The resulting intense argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling scale of exploitation it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich country has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered huge amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might improve. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The best stories
