As we consider the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles shines. These narratives explore intricate subjects from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with scathing satires on power. Although many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely rewriting the history of our human race. But, a faction was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest moments, people turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment solution – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a significant player on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is grappling with the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his life could turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
The best narratives
