As we reflect on the past year, a selection of outstanding feature-length articles emerges. Such accounts delve into intricate subjects including political machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While many of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he continues to move millions of books. This prompts a pressing query: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
A great many followers anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is she truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's true motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their stickiest moments, families rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the uppermost levels of government.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular former US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts 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 latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of the procedures remains somewhat contested.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away huge sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his situation could improve. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The best narratives
