As we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form articles shines. These pieces probe multifaceted themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with biting satires on autocratic rule. Although several of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. This poses a key query: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our species. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's own methods?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, people depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the highest echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a significant player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the events is still somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his situation could turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the key to which nation wins the global AI race.
The most impactful journalism
