Upon look back on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories emerges. Such accounts probe multifaceted themes from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the story of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the director's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of what happened is still partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. I was sadly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
