🔗 Share this article

As we consider the year gone by, a selection of remarkable long-form stories shines. These narratives delve into complex themes from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.

A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on power. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War

The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.

The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.

The British Cult That Hid in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.

A Leader's Curious Record on International Law

Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.

Shattering a Country's Myth

A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the director's own intentions?

The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains

From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, individuals rely on him to bring back normalcy.

Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?

Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective medical end – until possibly now.

The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics

A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of the state.

The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side

With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get uneasy.

A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital

An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a major player on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?

An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle

Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.

During the Trial of a Tragic Case

How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?

The End of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret

When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.

The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women

When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of what happened is still somewhat contested.

The "Mozart" of the Attention Age

He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?

Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas

With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution

As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life might improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.

A Global AI Race and a Key Move

In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

The finest narratives