While we look back on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable long-form stories emerges. Such pieces probe complex subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. This poses a key query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the history of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the events remains partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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