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As we look back on the previous year, a selection of exceptional feature-length stories shines. These pieces delve into complex subjects from political intrigue and scientific discoveries to deeply personal stories.

A Puzzling Author and the Moral Fabric of a Nation

A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the nineties with sharp satires on authoritarianism. Although many of his literary contemporaries have encountered censorship or fled the nation, he still move millions of books. It raises a pressing question: Has he become an supporter for the regime?

Survival and Complicity in Syria's Brutal Civil War

The story of a young man, who at 18 was told that his sole path to escape incarceration was to join the regime forces. After fourteen years, his history as one of Assad's fighters could now cost him his life.

A Acrimonious Dispute Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings

The finding of ancient bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was proclaimed as completely changing the history of our species. Yet, not everyone was in agreement. The resulting bitter controversy has consumed the lives of paleoanthropologists ever since.

The UK Religious Group That Operated in the Open

One woman was just a child when her household joined the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped expose the appalling breadth of abuse it had committed.

A Leader's Curious Stance on Human Rights

Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously ambiguous.

Breaking a Nation's Self-Image

A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she sets up corrupt clients with covert recording poses thorny questions: Is this person truly changed, and what are the director's own intentions?

The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Difficult Stains

From homicide sites to biological waste, Ben Giles has seen – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest hours, families depend on him to bring back peace.

Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?

Beset by restitution claims, precarious funding and the revelation of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its reputation?

More Than "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Condition

Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long been without an effective treatment solution – until perhaps now.

The Legacy of Extremism in Modern Politics

A militant fanatic and pioneer of hate, Meir Kahane died a political outcast thirty-five years ago. In the present day, his ideology permeate the uppermost echelons of the state.

An British Gentleman With a Fraudulent Secret

With his brilliant mind and flawless reputation, it's understandable that affluent individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become wary.

A Tiny State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital

An extremely wealthy country has transformed into a major actor on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most intractable conflicts. What are fueling this unprecedented endeavor?

An Inside Look at a Leader Preparing for International Battle

Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron thrives on the world arena, where he positions himself as the leader most equipped to handle a particular former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.

Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story

What led to the child of an aristocrat find herself at the Old Bailey with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?

The End of a Major Aid Organization: Not Widespread Mourning

When efforts were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were shocked. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this latest letdown was not unexpected.

The Shocking 1960s Experiment on Indian Women

When details about a medical study in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full nature of the procedures remains partially unclear.

A "Genius" of the Online Age

He's endured 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days underground – and distributed vast amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply incredibly savvy clickbait – or acts of artistic brilliance?

Life in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas

With the ocean increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is confronting the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The critical issue is: To where are they supposed to relocate?

One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness

As I met a young boy he was 13 and homeless. Even then believed his life could change for the better. I was tragically wrong.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection

In 2020, after living decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the answers to which nation wins the worldwide AI race.

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