As we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces stands out. Such pieces probe intricate subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. This poses a key query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
A great many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation could change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The finest narratives
