As we look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories emerges. These narratives probe complex topics from geopolitical machinations and historical revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Enigmatic Author and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the nineties with scathing commentaries on power. Although several of his literary peers have faced suppression or fled the country, he continues to move millions of books. This prompts a pressing question: Has the author turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Complicity in Syria's Devastating Civil War
The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his only path out of incarceration was to enlist in the government forces. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The finding of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as fundamentally changing the story of our species. Yet, some scholars was persuaded. The resulting intense controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her family became part of the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped reveal the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's commitment to international law. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, families turn to him to restore normalcy.
Will an Iconic Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's premier museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – until perhaps now.
The Ghost of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side
With his brilliant mind and impeccable background, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to get suspicious.
The Small Nation That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center
An astonishingly rich country has risen as a significant player on the international scene, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this ambitious endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a scientific study in the sixties came to light, there was immense shock. But the exact nature of the procedures remains partially unclear.
The "Master" of the Attention Economy
He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of money to selected participants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's people is facing the reality that their homeland may in the near future become uninhabitable. The critical question is: To where are they going to go?
One Sorrowful Story of Youth Destitution
As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his situation could improve. I was sadly misplaced.
The International AI Race and a Crucial Move
In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the key to who wins the global AI race.
The finest stories
