While we reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form articles shines. Such pieces delve into complex topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. While many of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still get him killed.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely rewriting the story of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Sect That Hid 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 expose the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks thorny questions: Is this person really a new person, and is the director's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich country has become a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact story of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
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