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While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces stands out. Such accounts explore intricate topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.

The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on power. Although numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War

The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.

The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our human race. But, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.

The British Cult That Operated in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.

A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law

Numerous followers expected that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.

Challenging a Country's Myth

A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's true methods?

The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains

From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to restore normalcy.

Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.

The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of government.

An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side

With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.

A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub

An astonishingly wealthy country has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?

A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry

Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.

During the Trial of a Tragic Story

How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?

An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning

When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.

The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers

When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the events is still somewhat contested.

The "Mozart" of the Online Age

He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?

Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean

With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?

A Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution

When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life could improve. I was sadly mistaken.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection

In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.

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