As we reflect on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles emerges. These accounts probe complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. Although numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. This prompts a pressing query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent heated argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is she genuinely changed, and is the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a key force on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A International AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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