As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories emerges. These narratives delve into complex topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This raises a key question: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route to escape prison was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting heated argument has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling scale of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many voters expected that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has become a key actor on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of what happened is still partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life might improve. I was tragically wrong.
The International AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the secret to which nation wins the global AI race.
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