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Upon look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces shines. Such accounts probe intricate themes from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.

The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation

Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This prompts a pressing question: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict

The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only route out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still cost him his life.

A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins

The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as radically rewriting the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.

The UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking extent of exploitation it had carried out.

The Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights

A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.

Challenging a Country's Self-Image

A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's true motives?

A 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 darkest moments, people turn to him to bring back peace.

Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Condition

Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.

The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of the state.

An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side

With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.

The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital

An incredibly rich country has risen as a key force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?

An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry

Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.

Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story

What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?

An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret

When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.

The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers

When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the procedures remains partially shrouded.

The "Genius" of the Online Economy

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness

When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.

A Global AI Race and a Key Move

In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.

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