As we consider the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles shines. These narratives explore intricate topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on power. While numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he still sell millions of books. This raises a pressing question: Has he turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the story of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Operated 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 uncover the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises thorny queries: Is this person really a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest times, people depend on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich country has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the key to who wins the global AI race.
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