While we look back on the previous year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles shines. These narratives probe multifaceted themes including political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human stories.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole route out of prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically changing the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is she really reformed, and what are the director's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical end – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich country has become a major player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise story of the events is still somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered huge amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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