While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form articles stands out. Such accounts probe multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a pressing query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was convinced. The resulting bitter argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective medical solution – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich country has become a significant force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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