While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional feature-length articles emerges. Such accounts delve into intricate themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
A Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to move millions of copies. It raises a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of prison was to join the regime military. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers may now cost him his life.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing scale of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest times, people turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment end – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become uneasy.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich country has become a major actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented role?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined 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, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full story of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his situation might improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives
