As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form articles emerges. These narratives probe multifaceted topics from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of books. It poses a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only way to escape prison was to join the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent bitter controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people turn to him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the events remains somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation might improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
