While we consider the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form stories stands out. These pieces explore complex subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This prompts a key question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The resulting intense controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she really changed, and what are the director's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the very highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of what happened is still partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life could improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
