While we reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form stories stands out. These pieces delve into multifaceted themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the history of our human race. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she really reformed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling background, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact truth of what happened remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
