Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of remarkable long-form articles stands out. These accounts probe multifaceted topics from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still get him killed.
A Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing intense argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A film tracking a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, families rely on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology shape the highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full story of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life might improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
