As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form stories stands out. These pieces explore intricate subjects including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with biting commentaries on power. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move millions of books. It raises a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling scale of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment solution – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the full truth of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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