As we consider the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. These pieces probe intricate themes from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. It prompts a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the history of our species. However, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting intense controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she really a new person, and is the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical end – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the very highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich country has become a significant player on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation could improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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