Upon consider the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form pieces shines. These narratives explore complex topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full story of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his situation could turn around. I was tragically wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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