While we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories shines. Such pieces explore intricate subjects including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pressing query: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now get him killed.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the story of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting heated scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable medical solution – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich country has risen as a key player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation might improve. I was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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