Upon look back on the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces emerges. Such pieces delve into multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. While many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a key query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our human race. However, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, families depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a significant force on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may possess the secret to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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