As we consider the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces emerges. These accounts probe intricate subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. While many of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he still sell millions of copies. It raises a pressing query: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent heated controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the director's own intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, people turn to him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable medical end – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a significant player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
