Upon consider the previous year, a curated list of remarkable long-form pieces shines. These pieces probe complex topics from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This poses a key query: Has he turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. However, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent bitter controversy has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is she truly a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, families rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable medical end – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a major actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the precise nature of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation might turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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