As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding long-form articles emerges. These narratives probe complex themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It poses a pertinent query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent bitter controversy has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many followers anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is she really reformed, and is the director's own intentions?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest moments, individuals turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an reliable treatment solution – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a major force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of what happened remains partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might improve. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
The best narratives
