While we consider the year gone by, a assortment of remarkable long-form stories stands out. These narratives explore complex subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the story of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting heated argument has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, families depend on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a key player on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact truth of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could improve. I was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the key to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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