Upon reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form articles shines. Such narratives explore complex subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally rewriting the history of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting bitter controversy has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Many voters expected that the prime minister would renew the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex queries: Is she truly a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest times, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the very highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has become a key actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented role?
An Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the full nature of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his situation could turn around. I was sadly mistaken.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
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. Now, he may possess the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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