While we consider the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form stories emerges. These accounts probe multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. Although numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of prison was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still get him killed.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the story of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is she truly changed, and is the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging times, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise nature of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life might change for the better. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could hold the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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