While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of outstanding long-form stories shines. Such pieces delve into intricate topics from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. But, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, people rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable medical remedy – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the very highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become wary.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has risen as a significant player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might improve. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the key to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The best stories
