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As we consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces shines. These accounts probe complex themes ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.

The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation

An author became known in the 1990s with biting satires on power. While many of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the establishment?

Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict

The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still get him killed.

A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.

A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight

One woman was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.

The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights

A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.

Breaking a Nation's Self-Image

A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's true motives?

The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains

From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.

Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?

Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy

Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent medical end – up until perhaps now.

The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government

A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest levels of government.

An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side

With his keen mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get wary.

A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital

An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a major player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?

An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle

Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.

During the Court Case of a Tragic Case

What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?

An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret

When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.

A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers

When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the events remains partially unclear.

The "Mozart" of the Online Economy

He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?

A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness

As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life could improve. I was tragically mistaken.

The International AI Race and a Pivotal Defection

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.

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