As we consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These narratives explore intricate subjects including political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It poses a key question: Has he become an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the history of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent bitter controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person really changed, and is the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, people rely on him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – up until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the uppermost levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might turn around. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
