While we consider the previous year, a selection of outstanding long-form stories stands out. Such accounts probe complex topics from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on power. Although several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key query: Has he become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our human race. However, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she truly a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging moments, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a major force on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation might improve. I was tragically mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may possess the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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