As we reflect on the year gone by, a curated list of outstanding feature-length stories emerges. Such pieces delve into intricate themes from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal journeys.
A Mysterious Writer and the Soul of a Country
An author rose to fame in the nineties with sharp critiques on authoritarianism. Although several of his writer peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. This poses a key query: Has he evolved into an supporter for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Horrific Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole way out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of Assad's fighters may still get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically re-writing the story of our species. But, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting bitter scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Operated in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she played a key role in reveal the appalling extent of exploitation it had carried out.
The Statesman's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous supporters expected that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been curiously inconsistent.
Breaking a Nation's Self-Image
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises thorny questions: Is this person really reformed, and what are the director's true intentions?
A Person Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From homicide sites to biological waste, an extreme cleaner has encountered – and restored – everything. In their most challenging hours, individuals turn to him to bring back peace.
Can an Iconic Institution Endure an "Omni-Crisis"?
Burdened by colonial controversy, precarious finances and the revelation of an insider theft, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Is it possible to restore its reputation?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Referred to as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an consistent treatment end – up until perhaps now.
The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, a rabbi died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. Today, his ideology shape the uppermost levels of government.
An British Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant mind and sterling background, it's no surprise that wealthy individuals entrusted him with their wealth. Until they started to become uneasy.
A Tiny Nation That Emerged as the World's Mediation Capital
An extremely rich country has become a major actor on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most long-standing disputes. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
An Inside View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at home, the French leader enjoys the international stage, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer joined him as he readied himself for battle.
Inside the Court Case of a Heartbreaking Story
What led to the daughter of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with killing their newborn infant?
The End of a Major Development Organization: Far From Universal Regret
When efforts were made to wind down a major US development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent letdown was far from unexpected.
The Disturbing 1960s Study on South Asian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was immense outrage. But the precise nature of the procedures remains partially unclear.
A "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in slime, two days underground – and distributed enormous sums of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or acts of avant garde genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the reality that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The critical issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Story of Youth Homelessness
When I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life could change for the better. That hope was sadly mistaken.
The International Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Today, he could hold the secret to which nation wins the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives
