While we look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form articles emerges. These accounts explore intricate subjects from political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
A Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on power. While many of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It prompts a key query: Has he evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole way to escape prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the story of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, people turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become uneasy.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this ambitious project?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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