While we look back on the past year, a selection of remarkable long-form stories shines. These accounts delve into complex topics from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It prompts a key query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is she truly a new person, and what are the director's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get wary.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a key player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of what happened is still somewhat contested.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his situation might change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
