As we consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form stories stands out. Such pieces explore intricate subjects from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. Although many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It prompts a pertinent question: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only route to escape prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable treatment solution – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich country has become a significant force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of the events is still partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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