While we consider the past year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories emerges. These pieces explore intricate themes ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply human sagas.
A Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Nation
An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with biting commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. This prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of a young man, who at eighteen was told that his sole path to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his former role as one of the Syrian leader's fighters could still cost him his life.
A Fierce Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was proclaimed as radically rewriting the history of our species. Yet, a faction was persuaded. The subsequent bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her household became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Numerous supporters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the first year in office has been curiously inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Identity
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises complex queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – it all. In their most challenging times, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Renowned Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's leading cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Modern Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Secret
With his brilliant intellect and impeccable credentials, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get uneasy.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a significant player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are driving this ambitious endeavor?
A Close-Up View at a President Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at home, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?
An Dismantling of a Global Development Agency: Not Widespread Regret
When actions were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was immense anxiety. But the exact truth of the events is still somewhat unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Youth Destitution
When I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then believed his situation might improve. I was sadly misplaced.
The Global AI Race and a Pivotal Defection
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he could possess the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
The finest journalism
