While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories shines. These pieces delve into multifaceted subjects including political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pertinent question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the history of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the director's true methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his situation could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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