As we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories shines. These pieces explore intricate topics ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on power. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of books. This prompts a pressing question: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the story of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent intense argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling scale of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment remedy – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has risen as a major actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise nature of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his situation could turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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