As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form articles stands out. Such pieces delve into complex subjects ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It poses a pressing query: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely rewriting the story of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording asks complex questions: Is this person really reformed, and is the director's true methods?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Famous Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a major actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the events remains partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life might turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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