While we look back on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form stories shines. Such narratives delve into multifaceted themes including geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. This raises a pressing question: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film following a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, people turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
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