While we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. These pieces delve into complex subjects from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with biting critiques on power. While several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole way out of prison was to join the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the director's true methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the highest levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the full story of the events is still somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation might improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
