As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding long-form stories shines. Such pieces delve into multifaceted subjects including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. This poses a key query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many supporters expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging times, people rely on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation could turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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