As we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding long-form stories shines. These pieces delve into complex topics from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It prompts a key query: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting heated argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment end – until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has become a major actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life might turn around. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the secret to who wins the global AI race.
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