Upon look back on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. These pieces probe complex themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It poses a key question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the full nature of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life might improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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