As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form stories emerges. Such pieces delve into complex subjects including political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. It poses a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may now cost him his life.
A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment end – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a key player on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life could change for the better. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
