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As we consider the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form pieces stands out. These accounts delve into complex topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.

The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country

Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. While many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pressing query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?

Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict

The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.

A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins

The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our human race. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing heated argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.

The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had carried out.

A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights

Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.

Shattering a Nation's Self-Image

A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is this person truly changed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?

A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes

From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.

Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?

Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?

Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – up until possibly now.

The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government

A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the very highest echelons of the state.

The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side

With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.

A Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital

An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?

An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle

Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.

Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story

How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?

An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret

When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.

A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers

When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the full truth of what happened is still partially contested.

The "Master" of the Online Economy

He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas

With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?

One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution

As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could turn around. I was sadly wrong.

The Global AI Competition and a Key Defection

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the secret to who wins the global AI race.

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