While we consider the year gone by, a selection of remarkable long-form stories stands out. These accounts probe complex themes including political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of books. This prompts a key query: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only route to escape prison was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might still cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing bitter argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises complex questions: Is she truly changed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, families depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a major force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the events remains somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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