As we consider the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form articles emerges. Such narratives probe intricate themes ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. It poses a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still cost him his life.
The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically changing the history of our human race. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing scale of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their stickiest hours, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings shape the highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get wary.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life could change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
