As we consider the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. Such pieces explore multifaceted themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with scathing satires on power. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a key query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing bitter argument has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, families depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the uppermost levels of government.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the events is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation might turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best stories
