As we look back on the year gone by, a assortment of exceptional feature-length articles emerges. These pieces probe multifaceted themes including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with biting satires on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It poses a pressing question: Has the author become an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many followers expected that the prime minister would restore the UK's commitment to international law. However, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises difficult questions: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's true motives?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their most challenging times, people rely on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical end – up until potentially now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become suspicious.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader most equipped to manage a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
A Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense anxiety. But the precise truth of the procedures is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation could change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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