As we look back on the past year, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces emerges. These accounts explore intricate themes from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pertinent question: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is she really reformed, and is the director's true motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich country has become a major force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the secret to who wins the global AI race.
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