Upon reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces shines. These pieces probe complex topics ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although several of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only way to escape prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may now get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to international law. However, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's own methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the precise story of the events remains partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation could turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
