As we consider the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories shines. These pieces probe multifaceted topics ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the nineties with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pressing query: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole way out of prison was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment end – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full story of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation could turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
