As we look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These narratives probe complex topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a key query: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking breadth of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
A great many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – until potentially now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a key player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
