While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories stands out. Such pieces probe multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. Although numerous of his writer peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It raises a key question: Has he turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the director's own motives?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, families turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a significant force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of what happened remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life could turn around. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
