As we consider the past year, a assortment of remarkable long-form stories stands out. These narratives probe intricate subjects including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pressing question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the history of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting bitter controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the director's true motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, families rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still somewhat contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life might turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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