As we consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form articles stands out. Such pieces probe multifaceted topics including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. Whereas several of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing query: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting intense argument has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, working to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of the events is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, two days buried alive – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the key to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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