As we look back on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles shines. These accounts delve into intricate themes including political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. This prompts a pertinent question: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective medical end – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas influence the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a key force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the procedures is still somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation could turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
The finest stories
