As we look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form stories stands out. These narratives delve into multifaceted topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on autocratic rule. While many of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This prompts a key question: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of the procedures remains partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The finest narratives
