While we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. Such accounts explore complex themes including geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a pressing question: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is this person really a new person, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, people turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become uneasy.
A Small State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of the procedures is still somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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