While we look back on the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles emerges. Such narratives delve into complex topics from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on power. Although several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical end – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless background, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full nature of the procedures is still partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
