As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces shines. Such accounts probe intricate subjects from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pressing query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's true motives?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment end – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich country has become a major force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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