As we reflect on the past year, a selection of exceptional feature-length articles shines. Such accounts delve into complex subjects from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It raises a key query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the story of our human race. However, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has risen as a major actor on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the full truth of what happened is still somewhat unclear.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life might turn around. That hope was sadly misplaced.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the answers to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best narratives
