As we consider the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories stands out. Such pieces explore complex themes from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of copies. It prompts a pertinent query: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole path out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is this person really changed, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals rely on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless background, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a key force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise nature of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation might change for the better. I was sadly wrong.
A Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
