While we consider the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form pieces stands out. These accounts delve into multifaceted subjects including geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with biting satires on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. This prompts a key question: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now cost him his life.
The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich country has become a key force on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
