While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable feature-length articles shines. These narratives delve into multifaceted subjects including geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing critiques on power. While numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a pressing question: Has the author turned into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically rewriting the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
The Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas influence the very highest echelons of government.
The British Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An incredibly wealthy country has become a key force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?
A Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the exact story of the events remains partially contested.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they going to go?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might possess the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
