As we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form stories shines. Such narratives delve into multifaceted topics including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. While many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move millions of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she really reformed, and what are the director's true motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective treatment solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full truth of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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