As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable long-form stories emerges. Such pieces delve into multifaceted topics including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
A Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. Whereas several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the history of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a key player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full nature of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the prospect that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
