Upon look back on the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. Such accounts probe intricate themes ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. This raises a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the history of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an reliable medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the events remains somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may hold the answers to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
