While we reflect on the past year, a assortment of outstanding feature-length articles shines. These accounts delve into multifaceted subjects from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal stories.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. Although many of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still sell millions of books. This poses a key query: Has the author turned into an defender for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the history of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting intense argument has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous followers expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film following a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses thorny queries: Is this person truly changed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable medical end – until perhaps now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a key force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense outrage. But the precise story of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed vast sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is confronting the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then thought his situation might improve. I was sadly wrong.
The Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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