While we consider the previous year, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories emerges. Such pieces delve into complex topics ranging from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. It poses a pressing question: Has he turned into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers could now cost him his life.
The Bitter Dispute Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as fundamentally changing the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has consumed the careers of scholars ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras raises complex queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest moments, people depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an reliable medical solution – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and pioneer of bigotry, a rabbi died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideas influence the highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen intellect and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they began to get suspicious.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has become a key actor on the international scene, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to deal with a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent disappointment was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of the procedures is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away enormous sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
One Sorrowful Case of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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