Finland has maintained its position as the world’s happiest country for a record seven years, according to the 2021 World Happiness Report. The report, which evaluates happiness levels across over 140 countries, is published annually on International Day of Happiness (March 20). It considers various factors such as social support, income equality, health, freedom, trust, generosity, and good governance.
Nordic countries have a strong presence in the top 10 happiest countries, with Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and Norway also featuring. These countries have robust social safety nets that promote well-being, reduce anxieties around critical needs such as healthcare and education, prioritize work-life balance, and social equality, allowing citizens to spend more quality time with loved ones and pursue leisure activities.
Finland’s happiness advantage can be attributed to several factors. The country has a comprehensive social safety net, ensuring all citizens’ basic needs, such as healthcare and education, are met, fostering a sense of security and reducing financial worries. Finland is also known for its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, well-functioning public services, and a clean environment, all of which contribute to overall well-being.
The Finnish society emphasizes trust and equality, with strong institutions and low levels of corruption fostering trust in the government and fellow citizens. Additionally, Finland prioritizes equality of opportunity, reducing social disparities and promoting a sense of fairness. Finland values work-life balance, with shorter working hours and generous parental leave policies, allowing individuals to invest time in their personal lives and relationships, which contributes to greater happiness.
Finns have a deep connection with nature, and spending time outdoors is a popular leisure activity. Access to natural environments has been shown to improve mental and physical well-being. While Finland continues to reign supreme overall, there is a concerning trend of lower happiness ratings among young people in Europe, including Finland. This trend warrants further investigation into the factors influencing youth happiness and potential interventions to address their concerns.
Finland’s success story offers valuable insights for other nations seeking to enhance their citizens’ happiness. Finland’s emphasis on social safety nets, good governance, equality, and work-life balance can provide a framework for policymakers worldwide. The report’s findings can serve as a springboard for discussions and initiatives aimed at fostering greater happiness and well-being across the globe.
Image by Rudy and Peter Skitterians from Pixabay