As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces stands out. Such accounts delve into intricate topics including geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on power. While several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent query: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical solution – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
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 killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures remains partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation could improve. I was sadly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
