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As we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of outstanding long-form articles emerges. Such pieces delve into complex themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human stories.

A Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country

A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pertinent query: Has he become an supporter for the establishment?

Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War

The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.

A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins

The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.

A UK Sect That Operated in Plain Sight

One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.

A Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights

Numerous voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been curiously ambiguous.

Challenging a Nation's Identity

A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?

The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes

From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, individuals turn to him to restore order.

Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?

Beset by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment end – up until possibly now.

A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics

A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of the state.

The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret

With his keen intellect and impeccable background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get suspicious.

The Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital

An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a major force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?

An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry

Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story

What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?

The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret

When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.

The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers

When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of what happened remains partially contested.

The "Master" of the Online Economy

He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?

One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution

When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could change for the better. That hope was tragically mistaken.

A International AI Competition and a Key Move

In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.

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