As we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form articles emerges. Such accounts delve into intricate topics including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It poses a key question: Has he turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. After 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our human race. But, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals rely on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.
The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has risen as a key player on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of what happened is still somewhat contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation could change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
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