While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces stands out. These narratives explore complex themes from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically changing the history of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical remedy – until possibly now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a key actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise nature of the events remains partially contested.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation might improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
