While we consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form pieces stands out. These accounts delve into multifaceted themes including political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on power. While numerous of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. This raises a key query: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the story of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical end – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a major player on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the exact story of the events is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life might improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
