While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces emerges. These narratives delve into intricate topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It prompts a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the history of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging hours, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment end – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a major player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his situation might improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives
