While we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding long-form articles stands out. These pieces probe multifaceted topics including political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. It poses a pressing query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing intense controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is this person really a new person, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a significant actor on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life could turn around. I was tragically mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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