While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding in-depth stories stands out. Such narratives explore complex topics from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's true motives?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment end – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant force on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case 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 newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered enormous sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life could turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
