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While we consider the past year, a assortment of outstanding long-form articles emerges. Such pieces explore intricate subjects ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.

The Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country

A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a pertinent question: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?

Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War

The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.

A Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings

The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.

The British Religious Group That Operated in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household 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 carried out.

The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights

A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly ambiguous.

Shattering a Country's Myth

A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex questions: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's own intentions?

The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains

From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging hours, individuals rely on him to restore peace.

Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical solution – until potentially now.

A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government

A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.

An English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret

With his brilliant intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become wary.

A Small State That Became the World's Mediation Hub

An extremely rich country has become a significant player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious project?

An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry

Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

During the Trial of a Tragic Case

What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?

An End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning

When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.

The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women

When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread shock. But the precise truth of what happened remains somewhat shrouded.

The "Mozart" of the Attention Age

He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?

Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean

With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

One Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness

When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly mistaken.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection

In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.

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