Upon look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles stands out. These narratives explore complex subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Although several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still move millions of copies. This prompts a key question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still get him killed.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was in agreement. The resulting heated argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment solution – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a key actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise nature of what happened remains somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life might improve. I was tragically mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The finest narratives
