Upon consider the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding feature-length articles stands out. Such pieces delve into multifaceted subjects from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still move vast numbers of books. This raises a key query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still get him killed.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally re-writing the narrative of our species. However, a faction was convinced. The resulting intense controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to human rights. Yet, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks difficult queries: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging moments, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Can an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an reliable treatment end – until possibly now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of government.
An English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become wary.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly rich country has risen as a key force on the international scene, working to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their home may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to go?
A Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best stories