As we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories shines. Such pieces probe multifaceted themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the country, he still move millions of copies. It raises a pertinent question: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent bitter argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical remedy – up until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has become a significant actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
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 Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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