Upon consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional long-form articles stands out. Such pieces delve into intricate themes including geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human journeys.
A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of books. It raises a pertinent query: Has he become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting heated controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling scale of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny queries: Is she really changed, and what are the director's own methods?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the precise truth of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the prospect that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the answers to who wins the global AI race.
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