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While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form stories emerges. Such narratives probe intricate subjects including political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.

A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?

Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict

The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.

The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins

The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.

The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open

One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.

The Leader's Curious Record on International Law

A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.

Breaking a Nation's Myth

A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?

The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes

From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, families rely on him to bring back peace.

Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?

Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Condition

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – until possibly now.

A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics

A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the highest echelons of government.

An British Professional With a Crooked Secret

With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become uneasy.

A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center

An extremely rich country has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious role?

An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry

Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?

An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning

When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.

A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women

When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially unclear.

A "Genius" of the Online Economy

He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of artistic genius?

Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas

With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness

As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation might change for the better. I was tragically wrong.

A International AI Competition and a Key Defection

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the key to who prevails in the global AI race.

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