As we reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable long-form stories emerges. These narratives explore complex subjects including geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with biting critiques on power. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of books. It raises a pertinent question: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent bitter argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film following a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, families turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full story of the events is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation might turn around. I was tragically wrong.
A Global AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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