As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. These pieces explore intricate subjects including geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on power. Whereas numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the nation, he continues to move millions of books. It prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might still get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, not everyone was in agreement. The subsequent heated controversy has taken over the lives of researchers ever since.
The British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she helped expose the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Country's Myth
A documentary featuring a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt clients with hidden cameras poses difficult questions: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their most challenging hours, families rely on him to bring back peace.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it salvage its legacy?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment end – until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas influence the uppermost echelons of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become suspicious.
The Tiny State That Became the World's Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a significant actor on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting US president. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When information about a medical experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact story of the events is still partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed vast amounts of cash to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might improve. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International AI Competition and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the answers to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The most impactful stories
