As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces shines. Such accounts probe multifaceted topics including political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically rewriting the story of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is she genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest hours, families rely on him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment end – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has become a key force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of the procedures is still somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the key to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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