Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces shines. These narratives explore intricate themes ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on authoritarianism. While many of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
A great many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a major player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The 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 taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise nature of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation could change for the better. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
The finest narratives
