As we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable long-form pieces shines. Such accounts explore intricate subjects including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. Although numerous of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. It poses a pressing query: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person truly changed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, families rely on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent medical remedy – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the very highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the events is still partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life could improve. I was sadly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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