While we consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories shines. Such narratives explore complex subjects including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on power. Although numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. This poses a pressing query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only path out of prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is she truly changed, and is the director's true methods?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment end – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the very highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a key player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might improve. I was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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