Upon reflect on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable long-form stories emerges. Such narratives probe complex subjects ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human sagas.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with biting satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It raises a pertinent question: Has the author become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The resulting intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless background, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has transformed into a significant actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
