While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form articles stands out. These accounts explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. This prompts a key query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is she really changed, and what are the director's own methods?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation could turn around. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
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