As we look back on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form articles shines. These narratives probe intricate subjects ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Although several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still get him killed.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
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