As we reflect on the past year, a assortment of remarkable long-form stories stands out. These pieces explore intricate themes from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of exploitation it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is she really changed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment end – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a key force on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full story of the events remains partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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