Upon look back on the past year, a curated list of outstanding long-form articles shines. These narratives explore multifaceted subjects from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has he become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of prison was to join the government forces. After fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on Human Rights
A great many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person truly a new person, and is the director's true methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical solution – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get suspicious.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: 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 Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full story of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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