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As we look back on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable feature-length articles stands out. Such pieces explore multifaceted topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.

A Mysterious Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the 1990s with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. It prompts a pertinent question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?

Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict

The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only path to escape incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.

The Acrimonious Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings

The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the story of our species. However, a faction was in agreement. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.

A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight

One woman was only a young girl when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.

A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on International Law

Many supporters expected that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.

Shattering a Country's Self-Image

A documentary featuring a repentant con artist as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's own methods?

A Person Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Scenes

From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging hours, families turn to him to bring back peace.

Will an Famous Museum Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Burdened by restitution claims, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its standing?

More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an consistent treatment solution – up until potentially now.

The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the highest echelons of government.

An British Professional With a Crooked Secret

With his keen intellect and sterling background, it's little wonder that affluent clients trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become uneasy.

A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital

An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a key actor on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented role?

An Inside Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle

Deeply unpopular at domestically, the French leader enjoys the world stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for battle.

During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story

How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?

The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret

When actions were made to drastically cut a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was not unforeseen.

A Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women

When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the procedures remains partially shrouded.

A "Mozart" of the Online Age

He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and distributed enormous amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to go?

One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution

When I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might turn around. That hope was sadly misplaced.

The International AI Race and a Key Move

In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he may possess the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.

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