While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These pieces explore intricate topics ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human stories.
A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of books. This prompts a key question: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person really changed, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a key player on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise story of the events remains somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life could turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The finest stories
