As we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces stands out. These accounts explore intricate themes from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on power. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only route to escape prison was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could still get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the precise nature of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might possess the key to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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