As we look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. Such narratives probe multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Sect 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 breadth of abuse it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of the events remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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