As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional feature-length articles stands out. These narratives probe multifaceted themes including political machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. This poses a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an supporter for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may still get him killed.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as radically rewriting the history of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent intense scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had committed.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film following a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's own methods?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long been without an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly wealthy country has become a key player on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent disappointment was not unforeseen.
A Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may in the near future cease to exist. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life could change for the better. That hope was devastatingly wrong.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he might hold the key to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
