As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form articles stands out. Such accounts delve into multifaceted subjects including geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal sagas.
A Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical end – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the very highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of what happened remains partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life could change for the better. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
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