Upon reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces shines. These pieces delve into complex subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. This raises a pressing query: Has the author become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing intense argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's own motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the events remains somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A International AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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