As we consider the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form pieces stands out. Such pieces probe multifaceted subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the history of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment end – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the highest levels of the state.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the events remains partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could improve. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
