While we reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional in-depth articles emerges. These accounts explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of copies. It raises a key query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the history of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy country has become a significant force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the full nature of what happened is still partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation might turn around. I was tragically wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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