As we consider the past year, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces shines. These pieces explore multifaceted subjects including geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the appalling scale of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a significant force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation could improve. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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