As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form stories emerges. Such accounts probe intricate themes including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It prompts a pertinent query: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole path out of prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might still cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely changing the story of our species. But, a faction was convinced. The resulting bitter argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is this person really a new person, and is the director's own methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment end – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this ambitious role?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the precise story of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his life might turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
