🔗 Share this article

Upon reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable feature-length pieces emerges. These accounts delve into complex topics ranging from geopolitical machinations and scientific discoveries to profoundly human journeys.

The Puzzling Novelist and the Conscience of a Country

An author became known in the nineties with sharp commentaries on authoritarianism. Although numerous of his writer contemporaries have faced suppression or fled the country, he still move millions of books. This prompts a pressing query: Has he turned into an defender for the regime?

Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict

The story of Mustafa, who at eighteen was informed that his only way to escape prison was to enlist in the regime military. After 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may still cost him his life.

A Bitter Dispute Over Our Earliest Origins

The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was heralded as completely rewriting the story of our human race. But, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing heated controversy has consumed the lives of scholars ever since.

A UK Religious Group That Hid in the Open

Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she helped expose the shocking extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.

The Statesman's Curious Stance on International Law

Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's dedication to human rights. But, the track record over the past year has been strikingly inconsistent.

Breaking a Country's Identity

A film following a remorseful con artist as she ensnares corrupt individuals with covert recording raises thorny questions: Is she really changed, and is the filmmaker's true motives?

The Man Who Remediates Britain's Darkest Stains

From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and cleaned – it all. In their most challenging moments, people turn to him to restore peace.

Can an Famous Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?

Beset by restitution claims, strained finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its standing?

More Than "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Extreme Pregnancy

Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this illness has for centuries been without an consistent treatment solution – until potentially now.

A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government

A militant fanatic and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology permeate the uppermost levels of government.

An English Professional With a Crooked Side

With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.

A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center

An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a significant force on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex disputes. Which factors are behind this unprecedented endeavor?

A Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle

Extremely disliked at domestically, the French leader thrives on the international arena, where he presents himself as the statesman uniquely positioned to deal with a particular sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.

Inside the Trial of a Heartbreaking Case

What led to the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn baby?

An Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Universal Regret

When efforts were made to dismantle a major US development organization, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in Sierra Leone, this latest letdown was not unexpected.

The Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers

When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was widespread outrage. But the full truth of the procedures remains somewhat contested.

The "Genius" of the Attention Age

He's spent a full day in a vat of goo, 48 hours underground – and distributed huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these videos simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Ocean

With sea levels increasing, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the prospect that their home may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they supposed to relocate?

A Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness

When I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life might change for the better. I was tragically misplaced.

The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Move

In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to China. Today, he may hold the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.

The finest stories