While we look back on the past year, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces emerges. These pieces probe complex subjects from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. This raises a pressing question: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the history of our human race. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense argument has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the director's true methods?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the highest levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich country has become a key player on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the reality that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life might improve. I was tragically mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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