As we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These pieces explore multifaceted themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It poses a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she really changed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical end – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become wary.
The Small State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Race 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. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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