As we look back on the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form articles shines. These accounts explore complex topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the history of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. However, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the director's true motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has become a significant actor on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the prospect that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life could improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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