As we look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories stands out. These narratives explore multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with scathing commentaries on power. While several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still move millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could still get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the director's true motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, families depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise nature of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
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 may hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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