The statement "Money can’t buy Happiness," which is widely recognized, continues to be applicable in the contemporary world.

While it is widely acknowledged that the United States, Russia, Luxembourg,and other affluent nations are considered the richest countries globally, it is intriguing to note that they significantly trail behind smaller nations such as Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and others when it comes to the World Happiness Index. Although wealth can provide influence and power, true fulfillment in life is ultimately derived from happiness. In this article, we will present a compilation of the world's happiest countries, so stay tuned for an overview of the World Happiness Index 2023.

Post-Pandemic Happiness: Encouraging Signs in the World Happiness Index

The world has experienced a challenging phase over the past three years due to the enduring COVID-19 pandemic. However, the latest World Happiness Index reveals positive indications in the aftermath of this global crisis.

The index has shown a remarkable increase of 25% compared to pre-pandemic levels, reflecting a substantial uplift in overall happiness. Notably, people have exhibited a greater sense of compassion and authenticity, actively engaging in assisting others.

John Helliwell, the author of the World Happiness Report, emphasized that individuals worldwide have embraced positive emotions as a means of coping with challenging circumstances. Furthermore, the feeling of social support among individuals has doubled in the wake of the struggles faced by countries during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Annual Report on Global Happiness Levels

Every year, the Sustainable Development Solutions Network in the United States publishes the World Happiness Index, an esteemed report that highlights the happiness rankings of countries worldwide. The survey encompasses over 150 nations and relies primarily on data gathered from The Gallup World Poll. The report is presented in video format, which can be downloaded from the official website of the organization responsible for its preparation.

Seven parameters shape the Happiest Countries List

1. Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
2. Perceptiveness of corruption
3. Freedom to take decisions in life
4. Expectations of a healthy life
5. Social support
6. Post-apocalyptic world
7. Generosity

Finland's Reign as the World's Happiest Country

For six consecutive years, Finland has maintained its position as the Happiest Country in the World. The Finnish population exhibits a remarkable sense of generosity and mutual social support. Factors such as high GDP per capita, low corruption levels, and individual freedom of choice have propelled Finland to the top spot.

According to the World Happiness Index 2023, Finland, along with its neighboring Nordic countries— Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark— occupies top positions in the rankings. These nations excel in all seven parameters previously discussed, securing them spots within the top 10 happiest countries.

Bottom-ranked Countries in World Happiness Index

Among the countries occupying the lower positions in the World Happiness Index are Lebanon, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Russia. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has significantly impacted the rankings of both countries, with Russia now positioned at number 70 and Ukraine at number 92.

India also finds itself towards the bottom of the list, currently ranked at 126. However, it is worth noting that India has experienced a positive improvement from its previous rank of 136.

Surprising Rise in the World Happiness Index

In the ninth edition of the World Happiness Index, a notable trend emerges as most countries in the top 20 list remain consistent over the past eight years. However, the Baltic nation of Lithuania stands out as an exception. Six years ago, Lithuania held the 52nd position on the index but has since made steady progress, now securing the 20th spot. This upward trajectory is not unique to Lithuania alone, as other Baltic countries like Estonia and Latvia are also experiencing a climb in the rankings.

Happiness Index 2023: Top 20 Countries