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As we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable feature-length articles emerges. These narratives explore complex themes including geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.

A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move millions of books. This poses a key question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?

Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War

The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the regime forces. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers could still put him in mortal danger.

A Bitter Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has dominated the lives of researchers ever since.

A 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 played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of mistreatment it had perpetrated.

A Leader's Curious Stance on International Law

Many followers anticipated that the prime minister would restore the the nation's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.

Breaking a Nation's Self-Image

A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is she genuinely changed, and is the director's true motives?

The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains

From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.

Can an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?

Beset by restitution claims, precarious finances and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's leading museum is in a major crisis. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy

Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective medical end – until potentially now.

A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government

A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his teachings influence the highest echelons of government.

The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret

With his keen mind and flawless credentials, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they began to become suspicious.

The Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub

An incredibly rich Gulf state has become a major force on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most complex conflicts. What are behind this unprecedented project?

An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Battle

Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?

An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Universal Regret

When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.

The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women

When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of the events remains partially contested.

A "Genius" of the Online Economy

He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away enormous amounts of money to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?

Life in a Nation Endangered by the Rising Seas

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to go?

A Tragic Case of Youth Destitution

As I met a young boy he was thirteen and without a home. I still hoped his life might turn around. That hope was tragically wrong.

A International AI Competition and a Key Defection

In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might hold the answers to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.

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