Upon look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories shines. Such pieces explore complex themes ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human sagas.
A Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It prompts a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is she really reformed, and what are the director's true motives?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging moments, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – until possibly now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich country has risen as a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his situation might turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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