The Best Long-Form Reads of 2025: An Compendium of Thought-Provoking Journalism

As we reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional in-depth pieces stands out. Such narratives delve into multifaceted topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.

The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country

A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. This raises a key query: Has he evolved into an defender for the establishment?

Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict

The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still cost him his life.

The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins

The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the history of our species. However, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter controversy has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.

The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight

One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.

The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights

Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.

Shattering a Country's Myth

A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?

The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains

From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.

Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?

Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical remedy – until potentially now.

The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics

A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.

An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side

With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become uneasy.

A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub

An astonishingly wealthy country has become a key actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?

A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry

Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.

During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story

What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?

An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret

When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.

A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers

When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the procedures is still partially unclear.

A "Genius" of the Attention Age

He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?

Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution

As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.

The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

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