As we reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth pieces shines. Such narratives probe multifaceted themes from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with biting critiques on power. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
