While we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding long-form stories shines. These narratives delve into complex topics from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with sharp commentaries on power. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of books. It raises a key query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is she truly changed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest moments, people turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely rich country has become a major force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise story of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation might improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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