Upon look back on the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces stands out. These narratives probe multifaceted subjects from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a key query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only path out of prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is she genuinely changed, and is the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless background, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of the events remains partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
