While we look back on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional long-form articles shines. Such narratives explore complex topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the nineties with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. It raises a pressing question: Has he evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically changing the story of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent intense controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many followers expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is she truly changed, and is the director's true motives?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, people depend on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment end – until possibly now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a key player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the exact story of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is grappling with the possibility that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life could improve. I was sadly mistaken.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
The best narratives
