🔗 Share this article

As we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of remarkable feature-length pieces emerges. Such narratives probe intricate topics ranging from geopolitical intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply human stories.

The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation

An author became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp critiques on power. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or fled the country, he still sell vast numbers of books. This raises a key question: Has the author turned into an defender for the regime?

Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Civil War

The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was given an ultimatum that his sole route out of prison was to join the regime military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still get him killed.

A Acrimonious Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Origins

The discovery of fossilised bones in the Chadian desert in 2001 was proclaimed as completely rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.

A British Religious Group That Hid in the Open

One woman was only a child when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped reveal the shocking breadth of exploitation it had carried out.

A Prime Minister's Curious Stance on International Law

Many voters hoped that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the track record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.

Shattering a Nation's Self-Image

A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording poses difficult queries: Is she genuinely changed, and is the director's true motives?

The Man Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes

From murder scenes to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, people turn to him to bring back peace.

Will an Iconic Museum Endure an "Perfect Storm"?

Burdened by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's premier museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?

Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": A Agony of Severe Pregnancy

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an consistent medical remedy – until perhaps now.

The Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Now, his ideas permeate the highest echelons of the state.

The English Professional With a Fraudulent Secret

With his keen mind and impeccable reputation, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their assets. Until they started to get suspicious.

A Tiny Nation That Became the World's Mediation Capital

An extremely wealthy country has risen as a key player on the world stage, attempting to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are fueling this ambitious endeavor?

An Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle

Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to manage a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous meeting, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.

Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story

What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their newborn infant?

The End of a Global Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning

When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent development organization, many around the world were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest betrayal was far from unexpected.

A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women

When details about a medical study in the sixties came to light, there was widespread shock. But the precise story of the procedures is still partially unclear.

A "Master" of the Attention Economy

He's endured a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to selected participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy entertainment – or works of daring brilliance?

Life in a Country Endangered by the Rising Ocean

With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the possibility that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Destitution

When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then hoped his life might turn around. I was sadly misplaced.

A Global AI Competition and a Key Move

In the recent past, after spending half his life in the US, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to China. Now, he could hold the secret to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.

The most impactful stories