Upon reflect on the past year, a selection of remarkable feature-length stories emerges. These pieces probe intricate topics from political machinations and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
A Enigmatic Writer and the Soul of a Nation
An author rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he still move millions of copies. This raises a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was informed that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 long years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Dispute Over Our Ancient Beginnings
The discovery of ancient remains in the Chadian sands in 2001 was proclaimed as completely re-writing the story of our species. However, some scholars was convinced. The resulting heated scholarly debate has dominated the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of abuse it had committed.
The Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the the nation's commitment to human rights. However, the record over the first year in office has been strikingly mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Myth
A documentary tracking a repentant fraudster as she sets up corrupt individuals with hidden cameras poses difficult queries: Is this person really changed, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and restored – it all. In their darkest moments, people rely on him to restore peace.
Will an Famous Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?
Beset by debates over its collection, precarious finances and the revelation of an internal thief, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
More Than "Morning Sickness": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this condition has long lacked an reliable medical remedy – up until potentially now.
The Spectre of Radicalism in Contemporary Politics
A violent fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas permeate the very highest levels of government.
The English Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his sharp intellect and sterling credentials, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they began to get wary.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An astonishingly wealthy country has transformed into a significant actor on the world stage, striving to broker peace in some of the most intractable disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?
A Inside View at a Leader Gearing Up for International Battle
Deeply unpopular at home, President Macron thrives on the international stage, where he presents himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a certain sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer accompanied him as he readied himself for battle.
During the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
How did the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their newborn infant?
An Dismantling of a Major Development Organization: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to dismantle a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest disappointment was far from unforeseen.
A Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Women
When information about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise story of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered vast sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or acts of artistic genius?
Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is confronting the reality that their homeland may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
A Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still hoped his situation might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Pivotal Move
In the recent past, after spending half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Now, he could hold the answers to who prevails in the worldwide AI race.
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