As we reflect on the past year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. These narratives probe intricate themes including political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich country has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of what happened remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could turn around. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could possess the secret to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
