As we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles emerges. These pieces probe complex subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still move millions of copies. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The resulting intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling scale of mistreatment it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the director's true methods?
A Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective treatment end – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has become a major player on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could turn around. I was sadly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
The finest journalism
