As we consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles shines. These pieces explore intricate themes ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This raises a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the history of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film following a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, families turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas shape the highest levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a major player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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