As we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form pieces stands out. Such pieces probe complex themes ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a key query: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the history of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent heated controversy has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, families turn to him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely rich country has transformed into a major force on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of the events is still partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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