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As we consider the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding feature-length articles emerges. Such narratives probe multifaceted topics from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.

A Enigmatic Novelist and the Conscience of a Nation

An author rose to fame in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It poses a key query: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?

Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War

The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole path to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's fighters may now put him in mortal danger.

The Bitter Feud Over Our Ancient Origins

The finding of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically rewriting the story of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.

A British Sect That Hid in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she helped reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had carried out.

A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law

Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.

Breaking a Country's Myth

A film featuring a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses complex questions: Is she really a new person, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?

A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Scenes

From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their stickiest moments, people depend on him to bring back order.

Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?

Beset by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?

More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition

Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment remedy – until perhaps now.

The Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest levels of government.

An English Professional With a Dishonest Side

With his keen intellect and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get uneasy.

A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub

An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented project?

An Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry

Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.

During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their two-week-old baby?

The End of a Global Aid Agency: Not Widespread Mourning

When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.

A Unethical Mid-Century Study on South Asian Women

When information about a medical experiment in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the full nature of what happened is still partially contested.

A "Master" of the Online Economy

He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away enormous amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very clever entertainment – or acts of daring genius?

Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas

With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the possibility that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

One Heartbreaking Case of Youth Destitution

As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation might improve. I was sadly misplaced.

A International AI Competition and a Key Defection

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the key to which nation wins the global technological rivalry.

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