Upon consider the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. Such narratives delve into intricate topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on power. While many of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell millions of copies. This prompts a pressing query: Has the author turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting heated argument has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, families turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment end – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of the procedures is still somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation might improve. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
A International AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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