Did you know there is a country that is happier than all the others? And that this is not Spain? The search for happiness is universal. The World Happiness Report responds to this and publishes a report every year that ranks countries based on their happiness level.
But what are the factors that contribute to national happiness? How is the satisfaction of different societies measured and compared? In this article we explore which country is the happiest in the world and how that is determined.
Finland the happiest and Spain declines
The World Happiness Report 2024, known as the World Happiness Report, has revealed that Finland has been crowned the happiest country in the world for the seventh consecutive year. This ranking places Denmark and Iceland right after Finland, confirming the Nordic countries’ position as leaders in well-being and satisfaction.
This year’s report delves deeper into the analysis of happiness throughout the different stages of life. In doing so, it challenges deeply held perceptions. According to the report, studies on happiness show a more nuanced and changing picture over time. This contradicts the notion that the later stages of life are inherently depressing, as described in Shakespeare’s “As You Like It.”
Factors that contribute to national happiness
Spain, traditionally seen as a country with a high quality of life and a relaxed lifestyle, has fallen in the rankings this year. The specific reasons for this decline are not discussed in detail in the report. Nevertheless, it invites reflection on the various aspects that contribute to national happiness. These include economic stability, social support, life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity and the perception of corruption.
These results provide an opportunity for countries to learn from the Nordic models of happiness. Those countries seem to find a good balance between work and private life. Residents can also count on strong social security and a high degree of civil liberties. For Spain, as for all countries, the report is a reminder of the importance of pursuing the well-being and happiness of its citizens. Economic growth is not a silver lining.
The top ten happiest countries
- Finland
- Denmark
- Iceland
- Sweden
- Israel
- The Netherlands
- Norway
- Luxembourg
- Switzerland
- Australia
Canada is at 15, the UK is at 20, the United States at 23, and Spain sits at number 36 on the list.
The top ten unhappiest countries
- Afghanistan
- Lebanon
- Lesotho
- Sierra Leone
- Congo
- Zimbabwe
- Botswana
- Malawi
- Eswatini
- Zambia
Also read: The happiest city in Spain is located in the Basque Country
