While we consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories emerges. Such accounts probe multifaceted themes from political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might still cost him his life.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK 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 played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a significant actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the key to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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