While we look back on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form stories shines. Such pieces explore intricate subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with biting commentaries on power. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically rewriting the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person truly changed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – everything. In their darkest moments, families depend on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the exact story of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, 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: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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