While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable long-form articles shines. Such pieces delve into intricate subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the story of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's true methods?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, families depend on him to restore peace.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the full story of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation could turn around. I was tragically wrong.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might possess the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
