Upon reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form articles stands out. Such accounts probe intricate topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It poses a pertinent query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many supporters 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 notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is she genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, families turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has risen as a significant force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions 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 population is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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