A Finest In-Depth Stories of the Year: An Selection of Thought-Provoking Journalism
As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles stands out. Such pieces explore intricate themes from political machinations and historical revelations to profoundly personal stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing satires on power. While many of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This prompts a key question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Record on International Law
A great many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex questions: Is she really reformed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable medical solution – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a key player on the world stage, working to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious role?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise nature of the events remains somewhat contested.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
A International AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he may hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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