While we look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles stands out. Such pieces explore complex themes including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
A Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has he become an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the history of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
A great many supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is she really reformed, and is the director's own motives?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their darkest times, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment end – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has become a key player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full story of the events is still somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life could change for the better. I was tragically mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
