Upon look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories emerges. These narratives probe intricate topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. This prompts a key query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent intense argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is this person truly a new person, and is the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
The finest narratives
