As we consider the past year, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces stands out. These accounts probe complex topics ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. It prompts a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically rewriting the history of our species. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting heated argument has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest levels of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life might turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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