Upon reflect on the year gone by, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories emerges. These pieces delve into complex themes including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human sagas.
The Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. While many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or left the country, he still move millions of books. It poses a pressing question: Has he become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole way to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's fighters might still cost him his life.
A Fierce Argument Over Our Earliest Origins
The finding of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as completely re-writing the history of our human race. However, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent heated controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was just a young girl when her family joined the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the shocking breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Statesman's Unexpected Record on International Law
Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the the nation's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares corrupt clients with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is this person genuinely reformed, and what are the director's own intentions?
The Man Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging times, individuals turn to him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has long lacked an effective medical end – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings permeate the uppermost levels of the state.
The British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's no surprise that high-net-worth individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to become wary.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An extremely rich country has transformed into a major force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. Which factors are fueling this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the leader best placed to manage a particular former US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Shocking 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the full nature of the events is still somewhat contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and showered huge amounts of money to selected contestants. But are these videos simply very savvy entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his situation might turn around. That hope was tragically misplaced.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Crucial Move
In 2020, after spending decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he could hold the answers to who prevails in the global AI race.
The finest journalism
