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As we look back on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form articles emerges. Such pieces delve into complex topics from political intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.

A Mysterious Novelist and the Conscience of a Country

A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp critiques on power. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of books. This raises a key query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict

The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.

A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings

The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically rewriting the history of our species. However, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.

The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.

The Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law

Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.

Shattering a Country's Self-Image

A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the director's true motives?

A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes

From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.

Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?

Beset by restitution claims, difficult funding and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?

Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy

Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment solution – up until potentially now.

The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government

A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the uppermost echelons of the state.

The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side

With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become suspicious.

The Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Center

An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented project?

A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle

Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.

Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case

How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?

The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning

When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.

The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women

When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full story of what happened is still partially contested.

A "Mozart" of the Attention Age

He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to go?

One Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness

As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might improve. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.

A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection

In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.

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