While we consider the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces stands out. Such narratives delve into complex topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on power. While numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This poses a key query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now cost him his life.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording raises complex questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, families rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a significant force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the full story of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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