As we consider the past year, a selection of exceptional feature-length pieces emerges. These accounts delve into complex topics including geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
A Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the nineties with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pertinent query: Has he evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The story of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his only way out of incarceration was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still cost him his life.
A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as radically changing the story of our species. But, not everyone was persuaded. The ensuing bitter argument has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing scale of exploitation it had carried out.
The Leader's Curious Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to international law. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses difficult questions: Is this person really a new person, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their stickiest hours, individuals turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, Britain's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment remedy – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the uppermost levels of government.
The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy clients trusted him with their wealth. Then they began to get suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Center
An incredibly wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key force on the international scene, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented role?
An Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron enjoys the international arena, where he projects himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Tragic Case
What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Universal 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 latest disappointment was far from unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Women
When details about a medical study in the 1960s became public, there was immense shock. But the full story of the procedures is still partially shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered huge amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's population is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical issue is: Where are they going to go?
One Tragic Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and homeless. I still believed his situation might change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he may possess the secret to which nation wins the global AI race.
The finest stories
