As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form pieces stands out. Such pieces explore complex themes including geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of prison was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is she really reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, people depend on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical remedy – until possibly now.
A Spectre 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.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable background, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
The Small State That Became the Global Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has become a major player on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the precise story of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might change for the better. I was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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