As we look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form stories stands out. Such narratives delve into intricate subjects from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. Although several of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of books. This prompts a pressing question: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling scale of abuse it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, people turn to him to restore order.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a major force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the answers to who wins the global AI race.
The best stories
