Upon look back on the past year, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles emerges. Such pieces explore complex themes ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of prison was to join the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely changing the story of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The resulting heated controversy has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's true motives?
A Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, families rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology influence the very highest echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a major force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of what happened is still somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life could improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives