As we consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form stories stands out. Such accounts explore complex topics including political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author gained prominence in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. It raises a key query: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent heated controversy has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is she really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich country has transformed into a significant force on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact truth of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might possess the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
