Upon look back on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding long-form stories stands out. These pieces probe complex themes ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still get him killed.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The resulting heated argument has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the uppermost levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a significant player on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life might turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the secret to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
