🔗 Share this article

As we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding long-form articles emerges. Such accounts probe multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.

A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Country

An author became known in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. It poses a key question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict

The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 years, his past as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.

A Fierce Argument Over Our Ancient Beginnings

The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing heated controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.

The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open

Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking extent of abuse it had committed.

The Leader's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights

A great many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.

Breaking a Country's Identity

A documentary tracking a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?

The Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains

From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging times, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.

Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?

More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective medical solution – up until possibly now.

The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology influence the highest levels of government.

The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side

With his keen mind and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.

The Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center

An extremely rich country has risen as a key force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?

A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle

Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.

Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story

What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?

An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret

When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.

The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers

When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of the procedures remains partially contested.

The "Master" of the Online Age

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?

One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness

When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might turn around. I was devastatingly mistaken.

A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the secret to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

The finest journalism