While we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. These pieces explore multifaceted subjects from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on power. Whereas many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. This poses a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may now get him killed.
A Fierce Dispute Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the history of our human race. However, not everyone was persuaded. The resulting heated scholarly debate has taken over the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is this person really changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Renowned Museum Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries been without an effective medical remedy – until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the highest levels of government.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their assets. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a key player on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented role?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader thrives on the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to handle a certain former American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical study in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the precise truth of the events remains somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast sums of cash to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing question is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Case of Childhood Destitution
As I met a young boy he was thirteen and homeless. Even then thought his life could change for the better. I was sadly mistaken.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the secret to who wins the worldwide AI race.
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