While we consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces shines. Such pieces probe complex subjects including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a pressing question: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting intense argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and is the director's own motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical solution – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life could turn around. I was sadly mistaken.
A International AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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