While we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. Such narratives explore intricate themes ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with biting critiques on power. While many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This prompts a key question: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way out of prison was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Sect 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 disturbing breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment end – up until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the exact story of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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