As we look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. These narratives explore intricate themes including political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole path out of prison was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the history of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The resulting intense argument has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of exploitation it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is she truly changed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an reliable medical end – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a significant force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of what happened remains partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life could turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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