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Upon reflect on the previous year, a assortment of remarkable feature-length pieces emerges. These pieces explore complex topics including political intrigue and scientific discoveries to profoundly personal journeys.

A Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Country

An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. Whereas numerous of his literary peers have faced suppression or left the nation, he continues to sell millions of books. This prompts a pressing query: Has he become an defender for the establishment?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict

The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of incarceration was to enlist in the government military. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's soldiers might still cost him his life.

The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The finding of ancient bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was hailed as completely rewriting the history of our species. But, some scholars was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.

A British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight

One woman was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the shocking scale of exploitation it had perpetrated.

The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law

Many voters anticipated that the prime minister would restore the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the performance over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.

Shattering a Nation's Self-Image

A film tracking a repentant con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording asks difficult questions: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?

The Man Who Remediates the UK's Most Difficult Stains

From homicide sites to whale blubber, Ben Giles has seen – and restored – it all. In their most challenging moments, families depend on him to restore peace.

Can an Iconic Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?

Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult finances and the exposure of an insider theft, the UK's leading cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to salvage its reputation?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Severe Condition

Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent medical remedy – up until potentially now.

A Spectre of Radicalism in Modern Politics

A violent fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideology shape the very highest levels of the state.

The British Gentleman With a Dishonest Side

With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that wealthy clients entrusted him with their wealth. Then they started to get suspicious.

A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub

An extremely rich Gulf state has transformed into a major player on the world stage, striving to solve some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are behind this unprecedented project?

An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle

Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he positions himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.

Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case

How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with killing their newborn baby?

An Dismantling of a Global Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning

When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.

The Disturbing 1960s Study on Indian Women

When information about a scientific study in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact nature of the events is still somewhat shrouded.

The "Genius" of the Attention Economy

He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed vast sums of money to lucky participants. But are these productions simply very clever clickbait – or works of avant garde genius?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean

With the ocean increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution

When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly misplaced.

A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Defection

In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he could hold the answers to who wins the worldwide AI race.

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