Upon reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional long-form pieces shines. These pieces explore multifaceted topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. Although many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route out of prison was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy 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 became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many voters expected that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person truly changed, and what are the director's own motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly rich country has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact truth of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation could turn around. I was sadly wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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