As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These narratives explore intricate subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. It raises a pressing query: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting intense scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging hours, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment end – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation might turn around. I was sadly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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