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Upon look back on the past year, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces emerges. These pieces explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.

The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with biting critiques on power. Although several of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a pressing query: Has the author become an defender for the regime?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict

The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.

The Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Origins

The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.

The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of mistreatment it had committed.

A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law

Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.

Challenging a Country's Identity

A film tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's own methods?

The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains

From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.

Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?

Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical solution – until perhaps now.

A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of the state.

The English Professional With a Dishonest Side

With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.

The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center

An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?

An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle

Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.

Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story

How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?

The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret

When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.

The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers

When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of the events remains somewhat unclear.

The "Master" of the Online Age

He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?

Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?

A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution

When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation might improve. That hope was devastatingly wrong.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move

In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.

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