Upon consider the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces shines. Such accounts delve into multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest times, families turn to him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment remedy – until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the events is still somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his situation could turn around. I was tragically wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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