As we consider the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form pieces stands out. These accounts delve into multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the story of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical remedy – up until potentially now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact story of the events remains partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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