While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles shines. These narratives explore intricate topics including political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing satires on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pressing query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape prison was to join the government military. After fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our species. However, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a significant player on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact story of what happened is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life might improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
