While we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. These pieces delve into complex subjects from political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still move millions of copies. It raises a key query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely rewriting the history of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical end – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a major player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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