As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of exceptional in-depth articles shines. Such narratives explore intricate topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on power. While several of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he still move millions of copies. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the story of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest times, people depend on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical end – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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