Upon look back on the past year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length articles shines. These pieces delve into complex subjects including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape incarceration was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The resulting intense controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the appalling extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
A great many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A film following a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person truly reformed, and is the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective medical end – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings influence the highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international stage, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the precise nature of the events is still partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and given away vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the possibility that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation might improve. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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