While we look back on the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These accounts explore intricate themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. While several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It poses a key query: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the story of our human race. But, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing intense argument has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person truly changed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, families turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective medical end – up until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a significant actor on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of what happened is still somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life could improve. I was sadly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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