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While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable long-form stories emerges. Such pieces delve into multifaceted topics from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.

The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country

Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move millions of copies. This prompts a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict

The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still get him killed.

The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins

The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting intense argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.

The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.

A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights

Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.

Breaking a Country's Self-Image

A film following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's true methods?

The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes

From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest moments, families turn to him to restore order.

Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?

Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition

Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical end – until potentially now.

The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics

A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the highest levels of the state.

The English Professional With a Dishonest Side

With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.

A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital

An incredibly rich Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?

A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle

Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?

An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning

When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.

The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women

When information about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of what happened remains partially contested.

The "Master" of the Attention Age

He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?

Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they going to go?

A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness

When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his situation might change for the better. I was sadly wrong.

A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move

In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

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