As we consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form stories shines. Such narratives delve into complex topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing satires on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This poses a pressing query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may now get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical remedy – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of what happened is still partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
