As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form articles stands out. Such narratives delve into intricate topics including political machinations and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
An author became known in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. Although several of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a key query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical solution – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the highest echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich country has transformed into a significant force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact nature of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his situation could improve. I was sadly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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