While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories shines. These pieces explore intricate subjects from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move millions of books. It raises a key question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may now cost him his life.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get wary.
The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a major player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life might turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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