Upon reflect on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles emerges. Such pieces delve into intricate subjects from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a key query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, individuals depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has become a significant player on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of what happened remains somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation could change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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