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Upon look back on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These pieces probe multifaceted topics from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.

A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation

Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. Although many of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War

The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way out of prison was to join the government military. After fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now cost him his life.

The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins

The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our human race. However, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.

A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open

One woman was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had carried out.

The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights

Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.

Challenging a Nation's Identity

A film following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she really a new person, and is the director's true intentions?

The Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains

From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.

Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – until possibly now.

A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government

A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of the state.

An British Professional With a Crooked Side

With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get wary.

A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub

An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a major force on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented role?

A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle

Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.

During the Trial of a Tragic Story

What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?

The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret

When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.

A Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women

When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.

A "Mozart" of the Online Age

He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean

With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness

As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.

A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection

In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the key to who wins the global AI race.

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