As we consider the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. Such pieces probe multifaceted themes including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with biting satires on autocratic rule. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It poses a key question: Has the author become an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many followers anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, families depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a significant player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the full story of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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