While we look back on the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form articles stands out. Such accounts explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling scale of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is this person really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Small State That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise nature of the procedures is still partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his situation might turn around. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could possess the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
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