While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces stands out. These narratives delve into multifaceted themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human sagas.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. Although many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of copies. This poses a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical end – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy country has become a key player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the secret to who wins the global AI race.
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