Upon look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form stories emerges. These accounts delve into complex topics from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp satires on autocratic rule. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. This raises a pressing query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's fighters might still get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses thorny queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich country has risen as a major player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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