While we consider the previous year, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. These accounts delve into intricate subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It prompts a key query: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the highest levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of what happened remains partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could turn around. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could possess the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful journalism
