Upon reflect on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces stands out. These narratives delve into complex topics from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of copies. It poses a pressing query: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may still get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get wary.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a significant actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of the events remains partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The best narratives
