Upon look back on the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories emerges. Such narratives explore multifaceted themes from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the history of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The resulting bitter controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical end – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise story of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal 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 could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The best narratives
