As we look back on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form stories stands out. These narratives delve into multifaceted topics from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Although several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, people depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical end – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the very highest levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has become a significant actor on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the procedures is still partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life could improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the secret to who wins the global AI race.
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