While we consider the year gone by, a assortment of outstanding feature-length stories stands out. These pieces probe intricate subjects ranging from geopolitical machinations and historical discoveries to profoundly human sagas.
The Puzzling Author and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist gained prominence in the 1990s with scathing commentaries on authoritarianism. Although several of his literary contemporaries have encountered suppression or left the country, he still move vast numbers of copies. It raises a key query: Has the author become an apologist for the establishment?
Endurance and Collaboration in the Syrian Brutal Conflict
The tale of Mustafa, who at eighteen was told that his only path to escape incarceration was to join the government military. Following fourteen long years, his past as one of Assad's fighters may still put him in mortal danger.
The Bitter Argument Over Our Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised bones in the Djurab desert in the early 2000s was hailed as completely changing the narrative of our human race. But, a faction was convinced. The ensuing intense controversy has consumed the lives of researchers ever since.
A British Religious Group That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in expose the appalling breadth of exploitation it had committed.
The Prime Minister's Puzzling Stance on International Law
Many supporters anticipated that the prime minister would renew the UK's dedication to human rights. But, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film following a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt clients with covert recording asks complex queries: Is this person truly changed, and what are the director's true intentions?
The Person Who Cleans Britain's Most Traumatic Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has witnessed – and restored – everything. In their stickiest times, individuals turn to him to restore order.
Will an Iconic Museum Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Plagued by debates over its collection, difficult finances and the discovery of an internal thief, the UK's leading museum is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its standing?
Beyond "Pregnancy Nausea": The Suffering of Severe Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the Victorians, this illness has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment end – up until potentially now.
The Legacy of Radicalism in Contemporary Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized outcast 35 years ago. Now, his teachings shape the very highest levels of government.
An British Professional With a Crooked Side
With his brilliant intellect and sterling credentials, it's understandable that wealthy clients entrusted him with their assets. Then they started to get uneasy.
A Tiny State That Emerged as the World's Diplomatic Center
An incredibly rich Gulf state has risen as a significant actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are fueling this ambitious project?
An Close-Up View at a President Gearing Up for Global Battle
Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron relishes the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader uniquely positioned to handle a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their previous meeting, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the summit.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
What led to the daughter of an wealthy family end up at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Widespread Mourning
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 latest betrayal was not unforeseen.
A Shocking Mid-Century Study on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties became public, there was immense shock. But the exact truth of the procedures remains partially unclear.
A "Master" of the Online Economy
He's endured a full day in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and showered huge sums of money to selected contestants. But are these productions simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Rising Seas
With sea levels rising, much of Tuvalu's population is grappling with the prospect that their islands may soon be submerged. The pressing issue is: To where are they going to relocate?
One Sorrowful Story of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and homeless. I still hoped his life might change for the better. That hope was sadly wrong.
A Global AI Race and a Key Defection
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he could hold the key to which nation prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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