As we consider the previous year, a selection of outstanding feature-length stories stands out. These accounts delve into multifaceted topics including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply human stories.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. While many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his sole way to escape incarceration was to join the regime military. After 14 long years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers may still cost him his life.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically changing the history of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling extent of exploitation it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary following a repentant con artist as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's true methods?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest moments, families rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an effective medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the uppermost echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that affluent clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Hub
An incredibly rich country has risen as a major force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Inside Look at a President Preparing for International Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of the procedures remains partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered vast amounts of cash to selected contestants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Life in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their home may soon be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. Even then believed his life might improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
A International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he might possess the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
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