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A Best Long-Form Reads of 2025: A Selection of Thought-Provoking Narratives

While we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length articles emerges. Such narratives explore multifaceted themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.

A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. While several of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?

Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict

The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.

The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.

The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.

A Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law

Many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.

Challenging a Nation's Myth

A documentary following a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the director's true intentions?

The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes

From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, families depend on him to restore normalcy.

Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?

Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Condition

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – up until perhaps now.

A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of government.

An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret

With his keen mind and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get suspicious.

A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital

An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?

An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle

Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.

Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case

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

The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret

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

The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women

When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the events is still somewhat contested.

A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy

He's endured a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?

Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean

With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?

One Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness

As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.

The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move

In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.

The most impactful journalism

By

Tara Smith

Urban planner and writer focusing on sustainable city development and global urban trends.

World Urban Blog

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