While we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding long-form stories emerges. These accounts probe intricate themes including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp satires on power. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is she really a new person, and is the director's own motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has risen as a major force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life might improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could hold the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
The most impactful stories
