Upon reflect on the past year, a curated list of outstanding long-form articles shines. Such accounts probe complex themes including political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. Although several of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This prompts a pressing query: Has he turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent heated controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical remedy – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the events is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the reality that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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