Upon consider the past year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. Such narratives probe complex topics including political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government military. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing bitter controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
A great many supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective treatment end – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life might improve. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The best narratives
