Upon reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable long-form stories stands out. Such pieces delve into multifaceted topics from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Although several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a key question: Has the author turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their stickiest times, people turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment end – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a key actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of the procedures remains partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation could change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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