Upon reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form stories shines. These accounts probe complex topics from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It raises a pertinent question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the government military. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's own motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging moments, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment end – until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life could turn around. I was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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