As we reflect on the previous year, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories emerges. Such pieces delve into intricate themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the nineties with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his writer contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he continues to sell vast numbers of books. It prompts a pertinent question: Has he turned into an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Complicity in the Syrian Brutal Civil War
The story of a young man, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Origins
The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was hailed as radically re-writing the narrative of our human race. But, some scholars was in agreement. The resulting bitter controversy has taken over the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Religious Group That Operated in the Open
One woman was just a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking scale of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
A great many voters hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been strikingly mixed.
Challenging a Country's Myth
A documentary tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks thorny questions: Is this person truly changed, and what are the filmmaker's own intentions?
A Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest hours, people rely on him to bring back peace.
Can an Renowned Institution Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Extreme Condition
Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an effective medical remedy – until possibly now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his sharp intellect and impeccable credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to become suspicious.
The Small State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major force on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Global Development Agency: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Women
When information about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the precise nature of the events remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the possibility that their home may in the near future be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to go?
A Tragic Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his situation could change for the better. I was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Now, he might possess the answers to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The best stories
