As we consider the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces emerges. Such accounts probe complex themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the history of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a key actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise nature of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation could turn around. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
