As we consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. These pieces delve into intricate topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film following a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent medical solution – until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of government.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a major actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development 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 Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life might improve. I was tragically wrong.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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