While we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form pieces shines. Such pieces probe complex topics ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. This raises a pressing query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the director's true methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a major force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Life 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 homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his life might turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The finest stories
