While we consider the past year, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces emerges. Such pieces probe intricate themes including geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of copies. It raises a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of what happened is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful journalism
