As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form stories emerges. Such narratives probe intricate topics including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route out of prison was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our species. However, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling scale of abuse it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas influence the highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become suspicious.
The Small State That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the exact story of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation could improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might possess the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives
