As we consider the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles emerges. These pieces explore complex topics including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This prompts a key question: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest hours, people rely on him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent medical solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy country has risen as a key actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the events is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his life might turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the answers to who wins the global AI race.
The best stories
