The Best In-Depth Stories of 2025: An Collection of Profound Journalism
As we look back on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional feature-length articles shines. Such narratives explore intricate themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling extent of abuse it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical end – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has transformed into a key player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his situation might turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful stories