As we consider the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. Such accounts explore multifaceted themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. Although several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the director's own methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment end – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a major force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life might improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The finest narratives
