While we look back on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable feature-length articles stands out. These pieces probe complex topics from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It raises a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises difficult queries: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, people turn to him to bring back order.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's number one museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent medical solution – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely rich country has become a significant actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered huge amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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