Upon consider the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces shines. Such narratives delve into intricate topics including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the very highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
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