Upon look back on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable long-form pieces stands out. These narratives delve into complex topics from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the story of our human race. But, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she really reformed, and is the director's true methods?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an reliable medical end – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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