As we reflect on the past year, a selection of outstanding long-form articles emerges. These pieces delve into complex themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the nineties with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route to escape prison was to join the government military. After 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Myth
A film following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's true motives?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent medical end – until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings permeate the highest levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless background, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become wary.
A Small Nation That Became the World's Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a significant force on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life might turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the key to which nation prevails in the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
