As we consider the past year, a selection of remarkable long-form articles emerges. These pieces delve into intricate subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp satires on power. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the story of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers expected that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their stickiest times, families turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An incredibly rich country has become a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
A International AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
