As we look back on the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These narratives delve into complex subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. It raises a pressing query: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still get him killed.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, families rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a key actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. I was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
