As we consider the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form articles emerges. Such narratives explore multifaceted topics including political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pressing query: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as completely changing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter argument has consumed the careers 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 uncover the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is she truly reformed, and is the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the highest levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat contested.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the reality that their islands may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then hoped his life could improve. That hope was sadly wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
