Upon reflect on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable long-form pieces emerges. These pieces explore complex themes including geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on power. Although several of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. It poses a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the story of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the director's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, families depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the uppermost levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has become a key force on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During 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 killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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