While we consider the previous year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length stories emerges. Such pieces probe intricate topics from geopolitical intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. Whereas many of his literary peers have encountered censorship or left the nation, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It poses a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The story of a young man, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. Following fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in the Open
One woman was just a child when her family joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing extent of mistreatment it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights
Many supporters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the UK's commitment to international law. However, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she sets up corrupt individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is she genuinely a new person, and what are the filmmaker's own methods?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Difficult Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their darkest moments, people turn to him to restore normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, difficult finances and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective treatment remedy – until possibly now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, a rabbi died a political outcast 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the highest echelons of the state.
The British Professional With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get suspicious.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Mediation Hub
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has become a key actor on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at home, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the child of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Unethical 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of what happened remains partially shrouded.
A "Genius" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and showered enormous sums of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the possibility that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The urgent question is: To where are they going to go?
A Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his situation might turn around. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he could hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best narratives
