As we look back on the past year, a selection of remarkable long-form stories emerges. These pieces delve into complex subjects from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a key query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing intense argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious role?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal 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 not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full truth of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his life might improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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