While we consider the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces shines. Such accounts delve into multifaceted topics from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. This raises a key question: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the history of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing scale of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, families rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has risen as a major player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life might improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
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