While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles stands out. Such pieces explore complex topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with biting critiques on power. Whereas many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the very highest levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major actor on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this ambitious role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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