Upon consider the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form pieces stands out. These narratives delve into complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This prompts a key question: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she really changed, and what are the director's true methods?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a key actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the full truth of the events remains partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation could change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
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