While we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. These pieces explore complex themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing question: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our species. However, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person really a new person, and is the director's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging hours, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective medical end – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the exact story of what happened remains partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life might turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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