As we look back on the past year, a selection of exceptional feature-length articles shines. These narratives probe complex topics from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on authoritarianism. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move vast numbers of books. This raises a pressing question: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only route out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters might now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of exploitation it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their stickiest moments, people rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an reliable medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the World's Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key force on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Global 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 front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full nature of what happened is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation might change for the better. I was sadly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Today, he could hold the key to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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