As we consider the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. Such accounts delve into multifaceted topics from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This poses a key question: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex queries: Is she truly changed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective treatment solution – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a significant force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of what happened remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his situation might change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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