While we look back on the past year, a assortment of exceptional feature-length stories shines. Such pieces probe intricate themes including geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.
The Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist became known in the post-Soviet era with sharp commentaries on power. Whereas several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he continues to move millions of books. This raises a pertinent query: Has he turned into an supporter for the regime?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The story of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole way to escape prison was to join the government forces. After 14 long years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers might now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The discovery of ancient bones in the Djurab sands in 2001 was heralded as fundamentally rewriting the story of our human race. Yet, some scholars was convinced. The subsequent bitter controversy has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Religious Group That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the disturbing extent of abuse it had carried out.
A Statesman's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many followers hoped that the prime minister would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. Yet, the record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.
Shattering a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful master criminal as she records corrupt clients with hidden cameras asks difficult questions: Is this person really changed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
The Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Traumatic Scenes
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging times, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Museum Weather an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one museum is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Called hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an reliable treatment solution – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Contemporary Government
A militant extremist and pioneer of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his teachings shape the uppermost levels of the state.
The English Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his keen mind and flawless background, it's little wonder that wealthy individuals trusted him with their wealth. Until they started to get uneasy.
A Small Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Hub
An astonishingly rich country has transformed into a key force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most long-standing conflicts. What are driving this ambitious role?
An Close-Up Look at a President Gearing Up for Global Summitry
Extremely unpopular at home, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. Seven years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the summit.
Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
When efforts were made to wind down a major US aid agency, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing Mid-Century Experiment on South Asian Women
When details about a scientific study in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact truth of the procedures is still partially unclear.
The "Genius" of the Online Economy
He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and showered enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Rising Ocean
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is facing the reality that their home may soon cease to exist. The pressing issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could change for the better. I was tragically wrong.
The Global AI Competition and a Key Move
In the recent past, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he might hold the secret to who prevails in the global AI race.
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