As we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories stands out. Such pieces probe intricate topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent heated argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the director's true methods?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An extremely rich country has become a significant actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the full truth of the events remains somewhat contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life could improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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