Upon reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These pieces explore intricate themes ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on power. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. This raises a key query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could now get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the uppermost levels of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full story of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his situation might turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could possess the answers to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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