Upon look back on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form stories emerges. These pieces explore intricate topics including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on power. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely rewriting the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing bitter controversy has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a major player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking 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?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the precise story of the events is still partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the prospect that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life could turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
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