As we consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. These pieces probe intricate themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. This prompts a pertinent question: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the very highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of the events is still somewhat unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his life might improve. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living 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 global technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
