As we consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth articles stands out. These narratives probe complex themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on power. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It prompts a key query: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our species. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting intense argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing scale of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest times, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent medical remedy – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has become a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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