Upon consider the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form stories stands out. Such accounts explore multifaceted topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pertinent question: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film tracking a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment solution – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a significant actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the prospect that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
