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As we consider the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces shines. Such pieces probe multifaceted themes from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human journeys.

The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with sharp commentaries on power. While numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?

Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict

The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.

The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the story of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.

The British Cult That Operated in the Open

One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing scale of abuse it had committed.

A Leader's Curious Record on International Law

Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.

Breaking a Country's Identity

A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?

The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes

From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back normalcy.

Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?

Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?

Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective medical solution – until perhaps now.

A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of government.

An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret

With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to get uneasy.

A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital

An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a significant player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented project?

A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry

Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story

What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?

The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret

When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.

The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers

When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.

The "Genius" of the Attention Economy

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring genius?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution

When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation could turn around. I was tragically wrong.

The International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection

In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

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