As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of outstanding long-form articles emerges. Such narratives probe intricate themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with sharp satires on power. Although several of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It prompts a key question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to join the government military. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective treatment end – up until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the highest levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich country has become a key actor on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial 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 Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially shrouded.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his situation could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
