The Finest Long-Form Stories of the Year: An Selection of Compelling Journalism

While we consider the previous year, a assortment of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. These accounts probe complex subjects including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.

The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. This poses a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?

Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict

The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.

The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins

The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.

The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.

A Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law

Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.

Challenging a Nation's Myth

A film following a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's true motives?

The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes

From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to restore normalcy.

Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?

Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?

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

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – until possibly now.

A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the highest levels of government.

The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret

With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get uneasy.

The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center

An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this ambitious role?

A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle

Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story

What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?

An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning

When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.

The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women

When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of what happened is still partially unclear.

The "Master" of the Attention Age

He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?

Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas

With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution

When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life could turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.

A International AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection

In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.

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