As we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories stands out. Such pieces delve into intricate subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pressing query: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only path to escape prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may now cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the story of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, families turn to him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich country has risen as a key player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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