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While we look back on the past year, a curated list of remarkable feature-length stories shines. These pieces probe complex themes ranging from political machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human stories.

A Puzzling Novelist and the Soul of a Country

An author rose to fame in the nineties with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. Although many of his writer peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of copies. It raises a key question: Has he turned into an supporter for the establishment?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict

The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only way out of prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still get him killed.

A Acrimonious Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings

The unearthing of fossilised bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally changing the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent heated scholarly debate has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.

A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open

One woman was only a child when her family became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the shocking extent of abuse it had carried out.

The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law

Numerous followers anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably ambiguous.

Shattering a Nation's Myth

A film featuring a repentant fraudster as she records corrupt individuals with covert recording poses complex questions: Is she truly reformed, and what are the director's true methods?

A Person Who Cleans Britain's Darkest Stains

From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and restored – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back order.

Can an Famous Museum Weather an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Burdened by colonial controversy, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its reputation?

More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries been without an reliable medical remedy – until potentially now.

The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Government

A militant extremist and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the uppermost levels of government.

An British Gentleman With a Crooked Secret

With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they began to become uneasy.

A Small State That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub

An astonishingly wealthy country has become a key force on the world stage, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?

An Close-Up Look at a Leader Gearing Up for Global Summitry

Extremely disliked at home, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain former US president. 7 years after their previous meeting, a writer joined him as he prepared for battle.

During the Court Case of a Tragic Story

What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?

An Dismantling of a Global Development Organization: Not Widespread Regret

When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the world were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.

The Shocking Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers

When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s came to light, there was widespread outrage. But the exact nature of the events remains somewhat unclear.

The "Master" of the Online Age

He's endured a full day in slime, two days underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of artistic brilliance?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels rising, much of this Pacific island nation's residents is facing the prospect that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The critical issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution

When I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still thought his situation might improve. I was sadly misplaced.

The Global AI Competition and a Key Move

In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to China. Now, he may hold the key to who wins the worldwide AI race.

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