The World Happiness Report is a partnership of Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and the WHR’s Editorial Board. This report assesses the happiness and well-being of the people around the globe.
According to the WHR report, the happiest countries in the world today are as follows Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Israel, Netherlands, Norway, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Australia.
Here’s the list of the top World’s Happiest Countries:
1. Finland
Finland again ranks at the top of the list of the world’s Happiest countries. This is attributed to a harmonious blend of breathtaking natural landscapes, strong social support networks, low levels of corruption, and a healthy work-life balance. Citizens enjoy a high quality of life, underlined by a strong sense of community, clarity of purpose, and a tendency to be helpful to others. Finland also boasts a high average life expectancy and a significant proportion of the population has a feeling of solidarity during times of need.
2. Denmark
Denmark is known for its high levels of equality and comprehensive social welfare systems, including free healthcare, subsidised childhood care, tuition-free universities, and generous pensions. These factors contribute to high levels of life satisfaction. The Danish people benefit from strong social connections, high levels of civic engagement, and an emphasis on work-life balance, which enhances their overall well-being.
3. Iceland
Iceland shares many of the same social support and economic factors as Finland and Denmark that contribute to high levels of happiness. The country’s natural beauty, with its volcanic landscapes and hot springs, adds to the well-being of its citizens. Icelandic people enjoy a strong sense of community, social support, and a healthy balance between work and leisure.
4. Sweden
Sweden ranks highly due to its generous social welfare benefits, low levels of corruption, and a stable economy. The Swedish government invests heavily in healthcare, education, and social services, which contributes to the well-being of its citizens. Additionally, Sweden is committed to environmental protection and sustainability, which enhances the quality of life.
5. Israel
Israel ranks as the happiest country in the Middle East and fifth globally. The country’s high ranking is likely due to its strong economy, democratic institutions, and vibrant culture. Despite challenges, Israeli citizens report high levels of life satisfaction and resilience.
6. Netherlands
The Netherlands enjoys a high standard of living, with strong social support, economic stability, and a healthy work-life balance. The Dutch benefit from a well-developed infrastructure, excellent healthcare, and education systems. Social connections and civic engagement are also significant factors contributing to their happiness.
7. Norway
Norway’s high happiness score is driven by its high GDP per capita, robust social support systems, and healthy life expectancy. The Norwegian government invests heavily in education, healthcare, and social services, ensuring a high quality of life for its citizens. The natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle also play a role in enhancing well-being.
8. Luxembourg
Luxembourg boasts a high GDP per capita and provides a stable, prosperous environment for its residents. The country is known for its multilingual culture, strong economy, and high quality of life. The well-developed social support systems and healthcare contribute to the overall happiness of its citizens.
9. Switzerland
Switzerland ranks highly due to its strong economy, high incomes, low corruption, and good quality of life. Citizens in Switzerland benefit from excellent education, healthcare, and infrastructure. In addition to that, the country’s political stability and commitment to environmental sustainability enhance the well-being of its residents.
10. Australia
Austraila’s happiness is driven by its powerful economy, democratic institutions, and supreme quality of life. Citizens in Australia enjoy a healthy work-life balance, a sense of community, and access to natural environments, including beaches, rainforests and landscapes. Australians’ healthcare & education system also adds up to its happiness score.
