While we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form articles shines. These accounts delve into complex themes from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing satires on power. Although several of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has he become an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our species. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is this person genuinely a new person, and is the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a major force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the events remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation could change for the better. I was sadly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
