The Top In-Depth Stories of the Year: An Selection of Thought-Provoking Narratives
Upon consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length articles stands out. Such narratives probe complex themes including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp commentaries on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might still cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the history of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of what happened remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his situation might improve. I was tragically wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives