While we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form stories emerges. Such pieces probe multifaceted subjects from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with biting commentaries on power. Although many of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. This poses a key question: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the history of our species. But, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer 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 Identity
A film following a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment end – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the events is still somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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