While we look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces shines. Such narratives delve into complex topics including political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. Whereas many of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, families rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical end – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich country has transformed into a key player on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the exact story of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. That hope was tragically wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
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