As we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form pieces shines. These pieces probe intricate subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. While many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, people turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical end – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the full story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might improve. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful stories
