While we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional in-depth articles stands out. Such pieces probe complex topics including political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. This prompts a key query: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK 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 breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the director's own methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest hours, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a major player on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best stories
