Upon look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles stands out. Such pieces explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It raises a pressing question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, families depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Center
An astonishingly rich country has become a significant player on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise truth of what happened remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation might turn around. I was sadly mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the secret to which nation wins the global AI race.
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