Upon look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form articles stands out. Such pieces probe intricate subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on power. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of books. It raises a pressing query: Has he turned into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole route to escape prison was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may now put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person truly a new person, and is the director's true methods?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, families rely on him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the highest echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless background, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the procedures remains somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation could improve. I was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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