While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable long-form articles stands out. These narratives probe intricate topics ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It prompts a key query: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of exploitation it had carried out.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is she really changed, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective medical solution – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the uppermost levels of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the events remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the answers to who wins the global AI race.
The finest narratives
