As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form stories shines. These narratives explore complex themes ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with biting critiques on authoritarianism. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment solution – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a significant force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of what happened is still partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life might improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The best stories
