As we consider the previous year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth articles stands out. Such pieces delve into complex themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is she really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life could change for the better. I was tragically misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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