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As we look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories shines. Such pieces delve into complex subjects including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.

The Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country

An author gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?

Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War

The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.

The Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Origins

The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting intense argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.

The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open

One woman was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.

A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights

Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.

Shattering a Nation's Myth

A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?

A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes

From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, families rely on him to restore peace.

Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?

Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?

More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.

The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics

A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.

An English Gentleman With a Crooked Side

With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.

The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub

An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this ambitious role?

A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle

Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.

During the Trial of a Tragic Story

What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?

An End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret

When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.

The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women

When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of what happened is still partially contested.

The "Master" of the Attention Economy

He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?

Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?

A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution

As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.

A International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection

In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

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