As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces shines. These pieces probe complex subjects including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on authoritarianism. While many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a pressing question: Has he become an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was convinced. The resulting heated controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Hid 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 expose the appalling extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, people rely on him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical end – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of what happened remains somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation could improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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