While we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form articles emerges. These pieces probe complex themes from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on power. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing question: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route to escape prison was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely changing the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting intense argument has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A 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 grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling scale of exploitation it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is she truly changed, and is the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective medical end – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of the procedures remains partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his situation might turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
