As we consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form articles stands out. These narratives explore intricate topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with biting satires on power. Whereas many of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. It prompts a pertinent question: Has he turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route out of prison was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, individuals rely on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
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 Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical solution – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a significant player on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his life might improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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