As we consider the past year, a selection of remarkable feature-length articles shines. Such narratives probe multifaceted topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Whereas many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still move millions of copies. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Feud Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the history of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The subsequent bitter argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Many voters expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical solution – until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas influence the highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An astonishingly rich country has become a key player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the events remains somewhat unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The pressing question is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation might turn around. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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