While we consider the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form stories shines. These pieces explore complex subjects including geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human sagas.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, families turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of what happened is still somewhat contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition 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 possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories