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While we consider the previous year, a curated list of exceptional feature-length stories stands out. These pieces probe intricate themes ranging from geopolitical intrigue and historical discoveries to deeply personal sagas.

The Puzzling Author and the Conscience of a Nation

An author gained prominence in the post-Soviet era with sharp satires on power. While many of his literary peers have faced censorship or fled the nation, he continues to move vast numbers of copies. It prompts a key question: Has the author turned into an apologist for the Kremlin?

Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict

The tale of a young man, who at 18 was told that his only path out of incarceration was to join the government forces. Following fourteen years, his past as one of Assad's soldiers may still cost him his life.

The Fierce Feud Over Our Earliest Beginnings

The finding of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in the early 2000s was heralded as radically rewriting the narrative of our human race. Yet, not everyone was convinced. The subsequent heated controversy has dominated the careers of researchers ever since.

A UK Cult That Hid in the Open

Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in uncover the disturbing extent of abuse it had committed.

The Statesman's Unexpected Record on Human Rights

A great many supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the Britain's commitment to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been notably inconsistent.

Breaking a Country's Myth

A documentary featuring a repentant master criminal as she records corrupt individuals with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is she really a new person, and what are the director's own intentions?

A Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Most Traumatic Stains

From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and dealt with – everything. In their stickiest moments, people rely on him to restore normalcy.

Can an Renowned Institution Endure an "Multifaceted Crisis"?

Plagued by colonial controversy, difficult funding and the discovery of an internal thief, Britain's premier cultural institution is in a major crisis. The question remains: Can it repair its standing?

Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Suffering of Severe Pregnancy

Referred to as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once termed 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent medical solution – until perhaps now.

The Ghost of Extremism in Contemporary Politics

A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideas shape the highest levels of government.

An English Professional With a Crooked Side

With his keen intellect and flawless background, it's no surprise that affluent clients entrusted him with their assets. Until they started to get wary.

A Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Center

An astonishingly rich Gulf state has transformed into a significant force on the world stage, working to broker peace in some of the most long-standing disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?

A Close-Up View at a Leader Preparing for Global Summitry

Deeply disliked at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world stage, where he projects himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their last encounter, a journalist accompanied him as he readied himself for the fray.

Inside the Court Case of a Tragic Story

What led to the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, facing charges with the death of their newborn baby?

The End of a Major Aid Agency: Not Universal Mourning

When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the globe were shocked. But on the ground in Sierra Leone, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.

The Unethical 1960s Study on South Asian Women

When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the precise story of the events is still somewhat unclear.

A "Genius" of the Attention Age

He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, 48 hours buried alive – and showered enormous sums of money to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly savvy entertainment – or acts of avant garde brilliance?

Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Ocean

With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's people is confronting the prospect that their islands may in the near future be submerged. The urgent question is: Where are they going to relocate?

A Tragic Case of Childhood Destitution

As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and without a home. I still thought his life might turn around. That hope was tragically mistaken.

A Global AI Race and a Crucial Defection

In the recent past, after living half his life in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he may hold the key to who wins the worldwide technological rivalry.

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