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As we look back on the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form pieces shines. Such narratives probe intricate subjects ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.

The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country

A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on power. Although numerous of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still move millions of copies. It raises a key question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the establishment?

Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict

The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.

A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing intense argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.

A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.

A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights

A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.

Shattering a Country's Myth

A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is she truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?

A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes

From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.

Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?

Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition

Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until potentially now.

A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government

A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of the state.

An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side

With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.

The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center

An extremely wealthy country has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?

An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle

Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?

An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret

When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.

The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers

When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of the events is still partially contested.

The "Mozart" of the Attention Age

He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas

With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution

When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.

The Global AI Race and a Key Move

In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.

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