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As we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form stories shines. Such pieces probe multifaceted themes from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.

A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation

Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with biting satires on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a key query: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict

The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now cost him his life.

A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the story of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.

The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open

Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.

The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights

Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.

Challenging a Nation's Self-Image

A film following a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?

The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains

From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals depend on him to restore order.

Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?

Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective treatment solution – until potentially now.

The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of government.

The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret

With his sharp intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.

The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center

An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a major actor on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?

An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry

Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.

During the Trial of a Tragic Case

What led to the child 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 Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret

When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.

A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers

When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of what happened remains partially contested.

A "Master" of the Online Economy

He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?

A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution

When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.

The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection

In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.

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