As we look back on the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories stands out. Such accounts explore intricate themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. Whereas several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a key question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the history of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is she truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, families rely on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the very highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get wary.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the precise nature of the procedures is still partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life might turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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