While we consider the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding feature-length articles shines. These accounts probe multifaceted subjects from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing satires on autocratic rule. While numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. It poses a key query: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of prison was to join the government military. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
The Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the narrative of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The ensuing bitter controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters hoped that the prime minister would restore the Britain's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Self-Image
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, families turn to him to bring back order.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – up until possibly now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get wary.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An extremely wealthy country has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the events is still somewhat shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is confronting the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The most impactful stories
