As we look back on the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles emerges. These accounts probe intricate subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This prompts a key query: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might still get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, families turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich country has risen as a significant player on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the prospect that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
