As we look back on the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form stories emerges. These pieces explore intricate themes ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting intense argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging times, families depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a key player on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full story of the events is still somewhat contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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