While we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces shines. These pieces probe intricate subjects including political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the nineties with biting commentaries on power. Although several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our human race. However, a faction was convinced. The resulting bitter controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, people rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology shape the highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely rich country has risen as a significant player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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