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As we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces shines. Such narratives delve into multifaceted themes including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.

The Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Country

Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. Although many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent query: Has he become an supporter for the regime?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War

The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now get him killed.

A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins

The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.

A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of exploitation it had committed.

The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law

Many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.

Challenging a Country's Myth

A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording poses complex questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?

The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains

From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.

Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?

More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an effective treatment remedy – until perhaps now.

The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of government.

The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side

With his sharp mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become suspicious.

A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital

An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?

A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle

Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.

Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story

How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?

The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning

When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.

A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers

When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the exact story of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.

A "Mozart" of the Online Economy

He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?

Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?

One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution

As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation could improve. I was tragically wrong.

A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move

In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.

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