The Finest Long-Form Reads of the Year: An Selection of Compelling Writing

While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces emerges. Such narratives explore intricate topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.

The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country

An author became known in the nineties with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still move millions of copies. It prompts a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?

Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War

The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole way out of prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now get him killed.

A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins

The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our human race. But, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent bitter controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.

The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had carried out.

A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law

Numerous followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.

Breaking a Country's Identity

A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person truly a new person, and is the director's own methods?

A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains

From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to restore order.

Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?

Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – until potentially now.

A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the highest levels of government.

The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side

With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.

A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center

An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a key actor on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?

An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry

Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.

Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story

How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?

The End of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning

When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.

The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women

When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of the events is still partially unclear.

The "Mozart" of the Online Economy

He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?

Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?

One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution

As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could improve. I was tragically mistaken.

The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move

In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the global AI race.

The most impactful journalism