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Upon consider the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form pieces shines. These accounts explore multifaceted topics including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.

The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country

A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?

Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict

The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.

The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.

The UK Cult That Hid in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.

A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights

A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.

Challenging a Nation's Self-Image

A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?

A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains

From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, people turn to him to restore order.

Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?

Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?

More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until potentially now.

A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government

A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of the state.

An English Professional With a Crooked Secret

With his sharp mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.

A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Hub

An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?

An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle

Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.

During the Trial of a Tragic Case

What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?

The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret

When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.

The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers

When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full nature of what happened is still partially contested.

A "Genius" of the Online Age

He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?

Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution

When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.

The International AI Race and a Crucial Defection

In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.

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