While we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories emerges. Such accounts explore intricate topics including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense argument has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is she genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest times, families rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a significant player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the events remains somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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