While we consider the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories stands out. These pieces delve into complex subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This raises a key question: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely rewriting the history of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment end – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a major force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
The finest narratives
