While we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. These narratives probe complex topics ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing query: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the story of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she really reformed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has become a key force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives
