As we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles emerges. These pieces delve into complex subjects ranging from political machinations and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This raises a pressing query: Has he turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way out of prison was to join the government military. After fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent intense controversy has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she really changed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to restore order.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment remedy – until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the highest echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable background, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the exact story of what happened is still partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life might change for the better. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might hold the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
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