Upon look back on the past year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth articles stands out. These narratives delve into intricate subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing query: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get wary.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has become a significant player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives