Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form stories shines. Such pieces explore multifaceted topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on autocratic rule. Although several of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically rewriting the history of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is she truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest times, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical end – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich country has transformed into a major actor on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life could improve. I was devastatingly wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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