Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces shines. These accounts explore multifaceted themes including political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the director's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent medical end – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a major actor on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full story of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation could change for the better. That hope was tragically wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
