🔗 Share this article

As we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces stands out. These narratives delve into intricate subjects from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal journeys.

A Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation

An author became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on power. Although numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?

Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict

The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still cost him his life.

The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.

A UK Cult That Operated in the Open

One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of exploitation it had carried out.

The Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights

Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. However, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.

Breaking a Nation's Myth

A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?

A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains

From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, families turn to him to restore order.

Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?

Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?

Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical end – until perhaps now.

The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the highest levels of the state.

The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side

With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get suspicious.

The Small State That Became the World's Mediation Center

An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?

A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry

Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?

An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning

When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.

The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers

When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.

The "Master" of the Attention Economy

He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?

Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness

As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation could improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.

A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection

In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.

The best narratives