As we consider the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth articles emerges. These narratives probe complex themes ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is she really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a key force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation could improve. I was tragically mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
