As we consider the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable long-form stories stands out. These accounts probe complex subjects from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This raises a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the story of our species. However, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, people depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable medical end – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the events remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his life might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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