Upon reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding long-form stories stands out. Such narratives probe intricate topics ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the nineties with biting satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of books. This raises a pressing query: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the history of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment remedy – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant player on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their islands may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his life might improve. I was sadly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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