Upon look back on the previous year, a assortment of outstanding feature-length stories stands out. Such pieces probe intricate themes ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific revelations to deeply human journeys.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
An author became known in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. While many of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or left the nation, he still move millions of copies. This prompts a key question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the regime?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his only route to escape prison was to enlist in the regime forces. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might now put him in mortal danger.
A Acrimonious Feud Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as radically changing the narrative of our species. However, some scholars was persuaded. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the careers of scholars ever since.
The UK Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.
The Leader's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she records unscrupulous clients with covert recording poses complex queries: Is this person genuinely reformed, and is the director's true methods?
A Person Who Remediates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – everything. In their most challenging moments, individuals depend on him to bring back normalcy.
Can an Famous Institution Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Severe Condition
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has long lacked an reliable treatment remedy – until potentially now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the highest echelons of the state.
An English Gentleman With a Crooked Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to become wary.
A Tiny Nation That Became the Global Mediation Capital
An astonishingly wealthy Gulf state has risen as a key actor on the world stage, attempting to broker peace in some of the most long-standing conflicts. Which factors are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Deeply unpopular at domestically, President Macron relishes the world arena, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to manage a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Case
How did the child of an aristocrat find herself at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The End of a Major Aid Organization: Far From Widespread Regret
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.
A Shocking Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When information about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense anxiety. But the full truth of the procedures remains somewhat shrouded.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and given away vast sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of avant garde brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is facing the reality that their home may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they going to go?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his situation could turn around. That hope was devastatingly misplaced.
The Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Crucial Defection
In the recent past, after living decades in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The most impactful narratives
