As we consider the year gone by, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces shines. These pieces delve into complex themes from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp satires on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. This poses a key query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the history of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, people turn to him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment end – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
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 two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his situation could improve. That hope was sadly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
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