Upon consider the past year, a curated list of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. These accounts delve into complex themes from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape prison was to join the government military. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the story of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person truly changed, and is the director's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, families rely on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the full story of the events remains somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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