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As we look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional long-form articles emerges. Such narratives delve into intricate themes ranging from political machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.

A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of books. It raises a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?

Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War

The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way to escape prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.

The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings

The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally rewriting the story of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.

The British Religious Group That Operated in the Open

One woman was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.

A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights

Many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.

Challenging a Country's Self-Image

A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is this person truly a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?

The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Stains

From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging moments, people depend on him to restore peace.

Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?

Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an reliable treatment end – up until possibly now.

A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the uppermost echelons of government.

An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side

With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.

The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital

An incredibly rich country has transformed into a key player on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented role?

A Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry

Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.

Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story

How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their two-week-old infant?

An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret

When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.

A Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women

When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the events is still somewhat contested.

The "Master" of the Online Age

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?

Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?

A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution

When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.

The Global AI Race and a Crucial Move

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.

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