As we look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces shines. Such narratives delve into intricate topics from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with biting satires on power. While numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically rewriting the story of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person really reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the uppermost levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of the procedures remains partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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