As we consider the past year, a selection of outstanding feature-length articles stands out. These narratives probe multifaceted topics from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. This poses a pressing query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. Following fourteen long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was persuaded. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises thorny queries: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's own motives?
A Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Will an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment solution – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the uppermost levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has risen as a key force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Inside View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain former US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A Global AI Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
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