As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces shines. Such pieces delve into multifaceted topics from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with biting satires on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the narrative of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to international law. However, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until potentially now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to become suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life might improve. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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