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As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of remarkable long-form articles shines. Such pieces explore intricate subjects including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal sagas.

The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation

Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on power. While numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an supporter for the establishment?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict

The tale of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to join the regime military. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could still get him killed.

The Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting heated scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.

The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.

The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law

Many followers anticipated that the prime minister would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.

Shattering a Country's Self-Image

A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she truly changed, and is the filmmaker's own motives?

The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains

From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals rely on him to restore normalcy.

Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Plagued by restitution claims, precarious 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 standing?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent medical end – until possibly now.

A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government

A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology influence the highest echelons of the state.

An British Professional With a Dishonest Side

With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.

The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub

An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?

A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle

Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

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

An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret

When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.

The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women

When details about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full truth of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.

The "Master" of the Online Age

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas

With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the reality that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to go?

A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution

When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his life might improve. That hope was sadly wrong.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move

In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

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