As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional feature-length articles stands out. Such narratives delve into complex themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal sagas.
The Mysterious Author and the Soul of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. Although several of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he still move vast numbers of copies. It raises a key question: Has he become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. After fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of abuse it had committed.
A Statesman's Curious Stance on Human Rights
Numerous followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses thorny questions: Is she truly changed, and what are the director's true methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, families depend on him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an effective medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they began to become wary.
A Small State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented project?
An Inside View at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the full nature of the events is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is confronting the possibility that their homeland may soon be submerged. The critical question is: Where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life might improve. That hope was sadly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.
The best narratives
