Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces shines. These pieces probe complex themes ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It poses a pertinent query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government military. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might still cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks complex queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the director's true methods?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical end – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology influence the highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation could improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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