With major conflicts ongoing in various regions globally, many of the best articles of 2024 were reported from war zones. Correspondents highlighted the impact of violence on daily life, capturing stories from Kyiv, Beirut, and Myanmar.
Natural disasters also featured prominently, as reporters navigated significant challenges to cover rescue and recovery efforts, documenting destruction in places like Paiporta, Spain, and Mayotte, East Africa, which was devastated by a cyclone.
Additionally, the year revealed acts of extreme depravity, such as those witnessed in Syrian prisons and a town in France where a woman was assaulted by multiple perpetrators.
Historical memories of past massacres, including the My Lai incident in Vietnam and a 17th-century genocide in Indonesia driven by the nutmeg trade, served as haunting reminders of human suffering.
On a more positive note, sports, particularly the Olympics, inspired some of the year's most compelling narratives, featuring topics ranging from surfing in Costa Rica to soccer's birthplace in England.
Animals were also highlighted, serving as sources of both joy and challenges, with stories about snake catchers in Australia and wild boar issues in Scotland.
Some dispatches focused on architecture, showcasing structures like a controversial building in Moldova and stilt houses by the sea, while others celebrated festivals and food, including Quebec's roadside cuisine and unique celebrations in Brazil and Mexico.
The following are 13 notable articles from 2024, covering a range of themes from lighthearted to serious.
A Stork, a Fisherman and an Unlikely Bond
Thirteen years ago, a stork landed on a Turkish fisherman’s boat in search of food, returning each year since and capturing the nation's affection.
Bathing in Oil at a Climate Summit? It Leaves a Stain.
During COP29 in Azerbaijan, locals express pride in their oil, claiming health benefits and flocking to resorts for oil baths.
In England’s Most Haunted Village, Halloween Means Screams and Skeptics
Pluckley, reputedly home to at least 12 spirits, attracts many ghost hunters and even skeptics who report eerie experiences.
Israeli Army Withdraws From Major Gaza Hospital, Leaving Behind a Wasteland
Al-Shifa Hospital, once a cornerstone of Gaza’s healthcare system, now lies in ruins, symbolizing the extensive destruction in the region.
A Menace to Motorists, but the ‘Noble’ Moose Is Adopted by Newfoundland
Despite being involved in numerous vehicle collisions, moose have become an accepted part of life in Newfoundland.
How John Travolta Became the Star of Carnival
During a Carnival celebration in Olinda, Brazil, a large crowd gathered in anticipation of a tribute to John Travolta, represented by a replica.
Fictional Tale of Migration Meets Real Life
The crew of the Oscar-nominated film “Io Capitano” faced heartfelt responses from Senegalese audiences, sharing their migration stories.
An Italian Town Full of the Elderly Wants to Feel Young Again
In an Italian hill town, older residents yearn for youth as they enjoy an annual concert, where few young children are present.
For New Moms in Seoul, 3 Weeks of Pampering and Sleep
New mothers in South Korea’s postpartum care centers experience luxury as they receive rest while their babies are cared for by nurses.
The Japanese Sensei Bringing Baseball to Brazil
Yukihiro Shimura diligently prepares Rio de Janeiro’s only baseball field, embodying dedication to the sport.
For Car Thieves, Toronto Is a ‘Candy Store,’ and Drivers Are Fed Up
A surge in auto thefts in Toronto has led residents to implement creative solutions to protect their vehicles.
Flying Kenya’s Flag Can Be a Crime. Protesters Now Wave it Proudly.
Despite strict regulations, Kenyans have begun to display the national flag as a symbol of resistance.
Dancing Past the Venus de Milo
Visitors at the Louvre experience joy as they dance in the renowned museum, creating a unique blend of culture and celebration.