As we look back on the past year, a curated list of outstanding feature-length articles shines. Such accounts probe multifaceted subjects ranging from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on autocratic rule. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole path to escape prison was to join the government military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our species. Yet, some scholars was in agreement. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the performance over the past year has been curiously mixed.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the director's own methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest times, individuals rely on him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable medical solution – up until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.
The Tiny Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, striving to solve some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this unprecedented project?
A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to manage a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of the procedures is still partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his situation could improve. I was devastatingly mistaken.
The Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he might possess the secret to who wins the global AI race.
The best journalism
