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While we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form articles stands out. These narratives delve into multifaceted topics ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.

A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country

Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. While many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict

The tale of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now cost him his life.

The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins

The unearthing of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting bitter argument has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.

A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had committed.

The Leader's Unexpected Record on Human Rights

A great many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.

Breaking a Country's Identity

A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is she really changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?

A Person Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes

From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.

Will an Iconic Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?

Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its legacy?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Condition

Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.

The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest levels of the state.

The British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret

With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to get wary.

The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub

An extremely rich Gulf state has risen as a key force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?

An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry

Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.

Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?

The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Regret

When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.

A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women

When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of the procedures remains partially contested.

A "Genius" of the Attention Economy

He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?

Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?

One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness

When I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his situation could change for the better. That hope was tragically mistaken.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move

In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.

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