As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding in-depth articles shines. These narratives delve into intricate topics ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move millions of books. It poses a key question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape prison was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is she really reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, people turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy country has become a key player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might possess the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest journalism
