While we consider the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form articles stands out. Such pieces probe complex subjects from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has the author become an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the history of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Many followers anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, people rely on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has become a key actor on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the full truth of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
