As we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth stories stands out. Such narratives probe complex subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the nineties with sharp satires on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of prison was to join the regime military. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could now cost him his life.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the history of our species. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the key to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
