As we look back on the past year, a selection of remarkable long-form stories stands out. These accounts probe multifaceted topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. Whereas several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent question: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person truly changed, and what are the director's true motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a significant player on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the events is still partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his situation might change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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