While we consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding feature-length stories emerges. Such pieces delve into intricate topics including political intrigue and scientific revelations to profoundly personal sagas.
The Puzzling Writer and the Moral Fabric of a Country
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on autocratic rule. While numerous of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he still sell vast numbers of copies. It raises a pertinent query: Has the author become an apologist for the Kremlin?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only path out of prison was to enlist in the regime military. Following 14 long years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
A Bitter Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was hailed as completely re-writing the story of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting intense argument has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the disturbing breadth of exploitation it had perpetrated.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been strikingly ambiguous.
Breaking a Country's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful fraudster as she sets up unscrupulous clients with covert recording asks complex queries: Is she truly reformed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Will an Iconic Institution Survive an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by restitution claims, strained funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has for centuries lacked an effective medical end – until potentially now.
The Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.
An English Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's little wonder that affluent individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they began to become wary.
A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a key force on the international scene, attempting to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. Which factors are driving this ambitious project?
A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron thrives on the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to manage a certain former US president. Seven years after their last meeting, a journalist joined him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their newborn baby?
The End of a Major Aid Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the full truth of the procedures is still partially contested.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of cash to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Existence in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The critical question is: To where are they going to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Destitution
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life might improve. I was tragically wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the secret to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
The best stories
