While we look back on the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form articles shines. Such accounts delve into complex subjects including geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of books. It poses a pressing question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's own methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical solution – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich country has risen as a major force on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of the events remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his life could change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful stories
