While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form pieces stands out. Such pieces delve into multifaceted topics from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still move millions of books. It raises a key query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. However, a faction was convinced. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is she truly changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, people rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment end – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy country has become a major player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared 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?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered huge sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation could turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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