As we consider the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form pieces shines. These narratives delve into intricate topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has he become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing heated argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many voters expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and is the director's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, people depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get wary.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a major player on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the precise story of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his situation could improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the global AI race.
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