As we look back on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable feature-length articles emerges. These pieces delve into complex subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with sharp critiques on power. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of books. This prompts a key query: Has he evolved into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could now get him killed.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as radically re-writing the story of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing heated argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording raises difficult questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's true motives?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest moments, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an reliable medical end – up until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get suspicious.
A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a key force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented project?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of the events is still partially contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
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 urgent question is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still believed his situation might turn around. I was sadly misplaced.
A International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the answers to who wins the global AI race.
The most impactful narratives
