While we look back on the previous year, a selection of outstanding feature-length articles emerges. These accounts probe complex themes ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing satires on power. Although several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a key query: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole path out of prison was to enlist in the government military. After 14 years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could now cost him his life.
A Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The resulting heated argument has dominated the lives of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Country's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is she genuinely reformed, and is the director's true motives?
The Man Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his ideas influence the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that affluent clients trusted him with their assets. Then they began to become suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact nature of the events remains partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the prospect that their islands may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. Even then thought his life could turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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