Upon consider the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles stands out. These narratives explore multifaceted themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the nineties with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a key question: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the shocking extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the director's true motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major actor on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the precise story of the events remains somewhat unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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