While we consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles emerges. Such accounts explore multifaceted topics from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. While many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of prison was to join the regime forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, families rely on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp mind and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the events remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
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