Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form stories stands out. Such pieces delve into multifaceted themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The resulting intense controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a significant player on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of what happened remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might improve. I was sadly wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
