As we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles shines. Such narratives delve into intricate subjects ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This poses a key question: Has the author turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the history of our human race. However, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is she truly changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts 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 latest betrayal was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the procedures is still partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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