Upon consider the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces shines. These pieces probe intricate themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting critiques on power. Although numerous of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. This raises a key question: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only way out of prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could now get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, families depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become wary.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of what happened is still partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life might change for the better. I was sadly wrong.
The International AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
