Upon reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding long-form stories emerges. Such accounts probe intricate themes including political machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. This prompts a pertinent question: Has he become an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she truly changed, and what are the director's own motives?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, people rely on him to restore order.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment end – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest levels of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a significant force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation could change for the better. I was sadly wrong.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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