As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form stories shines. These narratives explore complex subjects including political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing satires on power. Although many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It poses a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment end – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the precise truth of the events remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life might improve. I was sadly misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the secret to which nation wins the global AI race.
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