While we look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable long-form articles shines. Such accounts probe intricate topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of copies. It poses a pertinent question: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only route to escape prison was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as radically rewriting the history of our human race. But, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing bitter argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she really reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest times, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until possibly now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still believed his situation could turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
