As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form stories stands out. Such narratives delve into multifaceted topics ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal stories.
A Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It poses a pressing question: Has he turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The resulting intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical end – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has risen as a significant force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of the procedures remains partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might improve. I was tragically wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may hold the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
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