While we look back on the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form articles shines. Such pieces delve into intricate topics ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although several of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still move millions of copies. It raises a pressing query: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the procedures remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his situation might change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the answers to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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