Upon consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces stands out. These narratives delve into multifaceted topics ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. This prompts a key question: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of abuse it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a major force on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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