While we look back on the past year, a selection of outstanding feature-length articles emerges. Such narratives explore multifaceted themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. While numerous of his writer peers have encountered censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of books. It poses a pertinent question: Has the author become an supporter for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might now get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was proclaimed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. However, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing intense scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was only a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking breadth of mistreatment it had perpetrated.
The Statesman's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many supporters expected that the prime minister would renew the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film following a repentant fraudster as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is she genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest times, families depend on him to restore order.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.
A Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to get wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An extremely rich country has risen as a major actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties became public, there was immense outrage. But the precise truth of what happened is still partially shrouded.
The "Mozart" of the Attention Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the possibility that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life could improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to who prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
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