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As we look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles stands out. These narratives explore intricate topics from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.

A Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation

An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. It raises a key query: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?

Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War

The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now put him in mortal danger.

The Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings

The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The subsequent bitter argument has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.

The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open

One woman was just a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of abuse it had perpetrated.

The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights

Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.

Challenging a Nation's Myth

A documentary tracking a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?

A Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains

From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, individuals turn to him to bring back order.

Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?

Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?

Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Condition

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical solution – until possibly now.

The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government

A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the highest levels of government.

An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side

With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.

A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital

An extremely wealthy country has risen as a significant force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?

A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry

Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.

Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story

How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?

The End of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning

When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.

A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women

When information about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially shrouded.

The "Mozart" of the Online Age

He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?

Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean

With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness

As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could improve. I was devastatingly misplaced.

A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection

In 2020, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the answers to who wins the global technological rivalry.

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