Upon consider the previous year, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories shines. These pieces delve into multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. It prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
A Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the very highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact story of the procedures is still partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending 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 global technological rivalry.
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