As we consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form articles emerges. These pieces probe multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only way out of prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our human race. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is this person truly a new person, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, families turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas shape the very highest echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become uneasy.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the international scene, working to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away huge amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still believed his situation might improve. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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