As we reflect on the previous year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length articles emerges. These narratives probe intricate themes from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to deeply human journeys.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author rose to fame in the 1990s with biting critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. This prompts a pertinent question: Has the author become an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only way out of incarceration was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.
A Bitter Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as completely rewriting the history of our human race. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing scale of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Curious Record on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to bring back order.
Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Can it restore its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an reliable medical end – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless credentials, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich country has become a major force on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to manage a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was not unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed vast amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
When I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his life might improve. I was tragically wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he might hold the key to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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