While we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding long-form pieces stands out. Such pieces delve into multifaceted topics ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. This prompts a key query: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might still cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the story of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's true methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. I was sadly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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