While we reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional feature-length articles emerges. These pieces probe intricate subjects from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal stories.
The Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. This raises a key question: Has he become an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only way to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could now get him killed.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely rewriting the history of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The resulting intense argument has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking scale of exploitation it had committed.
The Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A film featuring a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with hidden cameras asks complex questions: Is this person truly reformed, and what are the director's own motives?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – it all. In their stickiest times, families depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Condition
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent medical end – until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get suspicious.
The Small State That Became the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich Gulf state has become a key actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious role?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense outrage. But the precise nature of what happened is still partially contested.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life might turn around. That hope was devastatingly mistaken.
A Global AI Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might possess the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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