Finland has once again secured its position as the world’s happiest country, marking its eighth consecutive year at the top of the annual World Happiness Report. Released in collaboration with the United Nations on the International Day of Happiness, the report assesses the well-being of people in over 140 countries based on various socio-economic and psychological factors.
According to the latest rankings, Pakistan has dropped one spot from last year, now ranking 109th, while India has made significant progress, moving up from 126th to 118th place.
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Top 10 Happiest Countries in the World (2025):
- Finland
- Denmark
- Iceland
- Sweden
- Netherlands
- Costa Rica
- Norway
- Israel
- Luxembourg
- Mexico
Why Finland Continues to Lead
Experts attribute Finland’s continued dominance to strong social trust, economic equality, access to nature, and a high standard of living. Professor Jan-Emmanuel De Neve from the Wellbeing Research Center at Oxford University notes that while Finns may not always display outward joy, they possess a deep sense of contentment. The study highlights that social connections and trust are more influential in happiness than financial wealth alone.
Pakistan’s Ranking and Key Factors
Pakistan’s slight decline in ranking suggests ongoing challenges in economic stability, governance, and social well-being. The report evaluates countries based on several indicators, including:
- Per capita income
- Life expectancy
- Social support systems
- Freedom to make life choices
- Generosity and charitable giving
- Perceptions of corruption
The Least Happy Countries in 2025
Afghanistan remains the world’s least happy country, ranking 147th. Other countries at the bottom of the list include:
- Sierra Leone (146th)
- Lebanon (145th)
- Malawi (144th)
- Zimbabwe (143rd)
The Bigger Picture: Social Well-Being vs. Wealth
While economic growth remains an important factor, the report emphasizes that social trust, equality, and strong community bonds play a crucial role in determining happiness levels. Countries like Mexico and Costa Rica, despite having lower GDPs than Western nations, have secured places in the top 10 due to their strong cultural focus on social connections and shared experiences.
First published in 2012, the World Happiness Report is produced by the Wellbeing Research Center at Oxford University in partnership with Gallup, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and other global organizations. The report serves as an essential tool for governments and policymakers, offering valuable insights into well-being and social prosperity worldwide.
