While we consider the previous year, a selection of remarkable feature-length stories stands out. Such pieces explore intricate topics including political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly human journeys.
The Enigmatic Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the nation, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a pertinent query: Has the author turned into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole path to escape prison was to join the government forces. Following 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still get him killed.
The Fierce Feud Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of fossilised remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the history of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Sect That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing breadth of mistreatment it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law
A great many followers hoped that the prime minister would renew the Britain's dedication to human rights. However, the performance over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a remorseful master criminal as she sets up unscrupulous individuals with hidden cameras asks difficult queries: Is this person truly changed, and is the filmmaker's own intentions?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their darkest hours, people depend on him to restore order.
Will an Renowned Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by debates over its collection, precarious funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment end – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.
The British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to get wary.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has transformed into a key actor on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular former US president. Seven years after their previous encounter, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread outrage. But the exact truth of the events is still partially shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered huge sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's people is grappling with the prospect that their islands may soon become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I met Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life might change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The International AI Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he could possess the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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