Congratulations, Finland! It’s our pleasure and honor to announce that Finland has once again – for the seventh consecutive time – been rated the World’s Happiest Country! This achievement is a testament to how strong community, high levels of trust, quality education, equality, and a nature-centric lifestyle can contribute to overall well-being.
Amidst this significant recognition, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to every Finn for your contribution to the well-being of our society. Together, we have created a country where people can live happily and safely.
Warm thanks also go out to all researchers, partners, and supporters who have dedicated themselves to the study of happiness and well-being. This acknowledgment is also thanks to your tireless efforts.
Finland’s continued success in fostering happiness serves as an inspiration amidst shifting global trends. As outlined in the latest World Happiness Report, the evolving landscape of happiness across different regions, and the unfolding of happiness across different stages of life, offers valuable and nuanced insights that challenge conventional wisdom and shed light on evolving global trends.
Contrary to the conventional beliefs that youth equates to happiness, recent data from North America and Western Europe indicate a concerning decline in happiness among young people aged 15-24 since 2006-10. Yet, amidst these shifts, Central and Eastern Europe witness a remarkable surge in happiness across all age groups, leading to a convergence in youth happiness levels between Eastern and Western Europe.
Globally, individuals born since 1980 exhibit lower levels of happiness, pointing towards broader societal changes. Moreover, the widening gap in happiness inequality across regions, except Europe, poses another cause for concern.
From the challenges faced by the younger generation to the importance of well-being in combating dementia among the elderly, the report underscores the multifaceted nature of happiness. Finland’s consistent position at the forefront of happiness rankings serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the efficacy of policies promoting community, trust, education and equality, stemming from the nature-centric anti-stress lifestyle.
As we celebrate Finland’s achievement, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of well-being and happiness for all. Let’s continue to work, both within Finland and globally, towards building an even happier and more sustainable future. Together we can create a world where happiness and well-being thrive.