Upon reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories emerges. Such accounts probe multifaceted topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on power. While several of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. This poses a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole route out of prison was to join the regime forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The resulting heated controversy has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, people depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment end – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology influence the highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a significant player on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
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