While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces shines. Such accounts explore intricate subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. While many of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. This raises a pertinent query: Has he become an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling extent of abuse it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.
The Small State That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the full truth of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
The finest narratives
