As we consider the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form pieces stands out. Such pieces explore intricate topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It poses a key question: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, families rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has risen as a key player on the international scene, working to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and given away vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could improve. I was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the key to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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