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While we consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories stands out. These narratives delve into multifaceted themes ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.

A Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country

A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?

Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict

The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.

A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings

The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.

The UK Cult That Operated in the Open

One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.

The Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights

Many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.

Challenging a Country's Myth

A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is she really reformed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?

The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains

From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, families turn to him to restore peace.

Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Beset by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?

More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent medical end – until possibly now.

A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest echelons of the state.

The British Professional With a Crooked Side

With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become uneasy.

A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center

An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a significant actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?

An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry

Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.

Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case

What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?

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

When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.

The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women

When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise truth of the events is still partially unclear.

The "Master" of the Online Economy

He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas

With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution

When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move

In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.

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