As we consider the previous year, a curated list of remarkable long-form pieces shines. These accounts explore intricate themes from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on power. While several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical solution – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a significant force on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his life might improve. I was sadly wrong.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
