While we consider the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories stands out. These narratives delve into complex topics ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. While several of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole route out of prison was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may still get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest times, families rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. I was sadly wrong.
The International AI Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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