As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form stories shines. These narratives probe multifaceted subjects including political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many supporters expected that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical end – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise truth of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
