As we look back on the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. These narratives delve into complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pressing query: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing heated argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, families rely on him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment end – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a significant actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
A International AI Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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