Upon consider the previous year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles emerges. Such accounts probe complex themes including political intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a key question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. But, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical end – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a significant actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the exact truth of the events remains partially contested.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his life could improve. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives
