Upon look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form articles stands out. Such pieces probe multifaceted subjects from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly human stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only way out of prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might still get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many followers expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent medical solution – until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a significant force on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of what happened remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life might improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
