While we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces shines. These pieces explore intricate themes including political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. Although several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting intense argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling scale of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest times, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich country has become a significant force on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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