As we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces emerges. These narratives probe complex themes from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on power. While many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It poses a key query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the story of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Many supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an consistent medical solution – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise story of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. I was tragically misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The finest narratives
