As we consider the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form stories shines. These pieces explore intricate topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only way out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the history of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of abuse it had carried out.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the director's true motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the very highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the precise nature of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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