Upon look back on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length articles stands out. Such pieces delve into intricate themes including political machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal sagas.
A Enigmatic Novelist and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. This poses a pressing question: Has he become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his only path out of prison was to join the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our human race. But, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many supporters expected that the prime minister would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film following 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 filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest moments, people turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment remedy – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideology permeate the very highest levels of government.
An English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a significant force on the international scene, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and homeless. Even then hoped his life could turn around. I was tragically wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Key Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
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