Upon reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form stories stands out. These narratives probe complex subjects including geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing question: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might still get him killed.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Small State That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a major actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life could turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
The 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 might possess the key to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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