Upon look back on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. Such accounts probe intricate themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key query: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective medical end – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the uppermost levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a key player on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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