As we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories shines. These accounts probe multifaceted themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with biting satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get uneasy.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a significant actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could improve. I was sadly wrong.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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