As we consider the past year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories emerges. These narratives probe multifaceted topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. While numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is this person truly changed, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, people turn to him to restore order.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical end – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
