While we consider the past year, a assortment of outstanding long-form pieces shines. Such pieces probe intricate themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pressing query: Has the author turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. However, a faction was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable treatment solution – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the highest levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the secret to who wins the global AI race.
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