As we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form stories emerges. These narratives explore complex themes from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing satires on power. Although many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a pressing question: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole path to escape prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, individuals rely on him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical solution – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and impeccable background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation could change for the better. I was tragically misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the key to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
