Finland: World's Happiest Country

The World Happiness Report 2025, published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, has once again placed Finland at the pinnacle of global happiness, marking its eighth consecutive year in the top position. This annual study, which evaluates countries based on citizens' self-reported life satisfaction, continues to highlight the Nordic nations' dominance in fostering societal well-being.

The report's findings extend beyond mere economic indicators, emphasizing the crucial role of social fabric in determining happiness levels. Factors such as social trust, community connection, and the perception of others' kindness emerge as significant predictors of national happiness. Notably, the study reveals a strong correlation between happiness and the belief that lost wallets would be returned, underscoring the importance of social trust.

While European countries predominantly occupy the top ranks, there are notable exceptions. Israel, despite ongoing conflicts, secured the eighth position, while Costa Rica and Mexico made their debut in the top ten. Conversely, the United States has plummeted to its lowest-ever ranking at 24th place, a stark decline from its peak at 11th in 2012. This drop is partially attributed to increasing social isolation, exemplified by a 53% rise in solo dining over the past two decades.

The report also sheds light on a worrying global trend: nearly one-fifth of young adults worldwide report having no social support, marking a 39% increase since 2006. This statistic underscores the growing challenge of social disconnection, particularly among younger generations.