As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. These narratives delve into intricate subjects from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a key question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may now cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent bitter controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of exploitation it had committed.
The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful master criminal as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's own intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, people rely on him to restore peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the highest levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a significant player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of what happened remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their islands may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he could hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The finest journalism
