While we consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form stories shines. Such accounts explore intricate themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the nineties with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Although several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the history of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film following a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she really changed, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a major force on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact truth of the events is still partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation could change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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