As we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. These narratives probe intricate themes from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the history of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical remedy – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings influence the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a significant actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full story of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could improve. I was sadly wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the key to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The best journalism
