While we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form pieces shines. These pieces probe multifaceted subjects from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a major player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full nature of the procedures is still somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
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