Upon reflect on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length articles stands out. Such pieces probe complex subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human stories.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. While many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of books. This poses a key question: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing intense argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
The UK Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the appalling extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's own motives?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest times, families turn to him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by restitution claims, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it salvage its reputation?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an effective treatment solution – up until possibly now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a major actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Women
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise truth of what happened remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the key to who wins the worldwide AI race.
The best stories
