Upon reflect on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable long-form articles shines. Such accounts delve into complex topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal sagas.
The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he still move millions of books. It poses a pressing query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing heated argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the appalling extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Record on International Law
Many voters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is she truly changed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, people turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get wary.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a significant actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise story of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation could improve. That hope was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
