As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding long-form stories emerges. These accounts explore multifaceted subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing satires on authoritarianism. While many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. This prompts a pressing query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the history of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing scale of abuse it had carried out.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, people turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the uppermost levels of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could turn around. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
