While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories stands out. Such accounts explore complex subjects including political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It raises a pertinent question: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way out of prison was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many supporters expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable medical solution – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of the events is still partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life could turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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