While we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form stories stands out. These pieces delve into multifaceted subjects including political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move millions of books. It raises a pressing query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. However, a faction was convinced. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is this person really a new person, and is the director's true motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging moments, people turn to him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the uppermost levels of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of what happened is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, 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 issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life could turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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