While we look back on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form articles shines. These accounts delve into multifaceted topics ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a key query: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film following a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable medical remedy – up until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy country has become a key actor on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense shock. But the full nature of the events remains somewhat contested.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation could turn around. I was tragically wrong.
A Global AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
The finest journalism
