The Top In-Depth Stories of the Year: An Collection of Thought-Provoking Writing

While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding in-depth stories emerges. Such narratives delve into intricate topics ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.

The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country

Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This poses a pertinent question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?

Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War

The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still get him killed.

A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings

The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The resulting bitter controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.

A UK Sect That Operated in the Open

Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.

The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law

Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.

Shattering a Country's Myth

A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?

A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes

From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.

Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?

More Than "Morning Sickness": 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 long lacked an consistent medical solution – up until potentially now.

The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics

A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the very highest levels of government.

An British Professional With a Crooked Side

With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.

A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital

An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious role?

An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry

Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

During the Trial of a Tragic Case

What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?

An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning

When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.

A Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers

When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the precise story of the events remains partially shrouded.

A "Master" of the Attention Age

He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?

One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution

As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.

The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move

In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the secret to which nation prevails in the global AI race.

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