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As we reflect on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces stands out. These pieces delve into multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.

A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country

Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It prompts a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War

The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now get him killed.

A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins

The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. But, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.

The British Sect That Hid in the Open

Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of mistreatment it had committed.

The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law

A great many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.

Breaking a Country's Identity

A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?

The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes

From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to bring back order.

Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?

Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Condition

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable medical solution – up until possibly now.

A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics

A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of the state.

An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret

With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to get uneasy.

The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center

An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?

A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry

Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.

During the Trial of a Tragic Story

How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?

The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret

When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.

The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers

When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the full story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.

The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy

He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?

Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

One Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness

As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life could turn around. I was devastatingly wrong.

A International AI Race and a Pivotal Defection

In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.

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