As we consider the previous year, a curated list of remarkable long-form articles shines. These narratives explore multifaceted themes including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the nineties with biting commentaries on power. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the history of our species. However, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent heated argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective medical remedy – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the very highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life might turn around. I was sadly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the global AI race.
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