While we consider the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding in-depth articles emerges. These narratives explore multifaceted themes ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on power. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is she really changed, and is the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become suspicious.
The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a key actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the events remains partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the possibility that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the answers to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
