As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. Such narratives delve into complex themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. Although many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It poses a pressing query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now get him killed.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many followers expected 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 notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, families turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, working to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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