Upon look back on the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces shines. Such accounts probe multifaceted themes including geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the history of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, families rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation could change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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