As we look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories emerges. Such narratives explore complex topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the nineties with sharp commentaries on power. Although numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. It poses a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still get him killed.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the history of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical end – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
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 partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise story of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation might change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could possess the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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