While we consider the past year, a selection of outstanding feature-length articles emerges. Such narratives explore multifaceted subjects ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on power. While numerous of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This poses a key question: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole route to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers could now put him in mortal danger.
The Fierce Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The ensuing heated argument has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The British Religious Group That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling breadth of abuse it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest moments, individuals turn to him to restore peace.
Can an Renowned Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's number one museum is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent treatment end – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology influence the very highest levels of government.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get wary.
The Small Nation That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman best placed to handle a particular former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest disappointment was not unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact story of the events remains partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the prospect that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution
When I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
