A Finest In-Depth Articles of the Year: An Selection of Compelling Writing

Upon look back on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding in-depth stories emerges. Such accounts delve into multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.

The Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with biting commentaries on power. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. This raises a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?

Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War

The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.

The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.

A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight

One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.

A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights

Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.

Shattering a Country's Myth

A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is she truly changed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?

The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes

From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, families rely on him to bring back normalcy.

Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?

Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – up until possibly now.

The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics

A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the highest echelons of government.

An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side

With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get wary.

The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center

An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?

A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry

Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.

During the Trial of a Tragic Case

How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?

The End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret

When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.

A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers

When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of what happened remains somewhat contested.

The "Genius" of the Online Age

He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?

Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas

With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?

One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness

When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life might turn around. That hope was sadly misplaced.

The International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection

In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.

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