While we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional long-form articles stands out. These accounts explore intricate topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on power. Although many of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape incarceration was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent intense argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, people depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An extremely rich country has transformed into a key force on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful narratives
