As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of remarkable long-form articles shines. Such narratives probe multifaceted subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with scathing satires on power. Whereas several of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has he become an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the story of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing intense argument has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, individuals turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the procedures is still somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life might turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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