While we consider the year gone by, a selection of exceptional long-form articles stands out. These pieces explore multifaceted subjects from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Enigmatic Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author became known in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a key query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the shocking scale of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Puzzling Stance on Human Rights
A great many voters expected that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person truly a new person, and is the director's true intentions?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – everything. In their most challenging moments, people depend on him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – up until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An incredibly wealthy country has become a major force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of the events is still partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and distributed vast sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is facing the prospect that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his life could turn around. I was tragically wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.
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