As we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable in-depth stories emerges. Such pieces probe intricate topics from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Although many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a key query: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route out of prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the story of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable medical solution – until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a major actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the precise story of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life might improve. I was tragically wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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