While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of outstanding long-form articles emerges. These accounts explore multifaceted topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on power. Whereas many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still move millions of books. It prompts a pertinent question: Has the author become an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the history of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing bitter argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks thorny queries: Is she really changed, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective treatment solution – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise truth of the procedures is still partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his life might improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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