The Top Feature Reads of 2025: An Compendium of Thought-Provoking Journalism
As we look back on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable in-depth articles shines. Such accounts delve into intricate topics from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Enigmatic Author and the Soul of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his literary peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of copies. This raises a key question: Has he become an defender for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as fundamentally changing the history of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The subsequent heated argument has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A British Cult That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Myth
A film featuring a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is she truly a new person, and is the director's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back order.
Can an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, strained finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's premier cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment remedy – up until perhaps now.
A Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his ideology shape the highest echelons of government.
An English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to become wary.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
An Inside Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to drastically cut a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the precise nature of the procedures is still partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed enormous sums of cash to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the reality that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically wrong.
A Global AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The finest stories