As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles shines. These narratives delve into multifaceted subjects including political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only path out of prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is this person truly changed, and is the director's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to get suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the procedures is still partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation could improve. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may possess the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
The finest stories
