Upon consider the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These narratives delve into intricate themes including political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a key question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could now get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
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 shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and is the director's own intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging times, people rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain 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 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 End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of what happened is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life might turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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