As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable long-form pieces shines. Such narratives delve into intricate themes including political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This prompts a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, families rely on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective medical end – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become wary.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a key force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of what happened remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might improve. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the answers to who wins the global AI race.
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