As we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These pieces explore complex themes ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the history of our human race. But, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting heated scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is she really changed, and is the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical solution – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of what happened remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his situation could turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
