While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form articles emerges. These narratives probe intricate topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a key query: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as radically rewriting the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the appalling scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical remedy – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his life could change for the better. I was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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