A recent report from the World Happiness Report 2025 has ranked Finland as the happiest country in the world for the eighth year in a row. The report, published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, also placed other Nordic countries, including Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden, among the top four happiest countries.
Finland’s high ranking can be attributed to its strong sense of community, trust, and connection among its citizens. Residents like Aino Virolainen, a digital commerce director, praise the country’s peaceful and quiet environment, clean air, and fresh nature.
The report’s findings suggest that happiness is not solely dependent on wealth or growth but also on factors like trust, connection, and social support. Researchers noted that sharing meals with others, having someone to count on, and believing in the kindness of others are all significant predictors of happiness.
Interestingly, the report also found that people are often too pessimistic about the kindness of their communities. In reality, the return rate of lost wallets is around twice as high as people expect.
While Finland and other Nordic countries dominated the top spots, the United States fell to its lowest-ever position at 24. The report attributed this decline to increasing social isolation, with the number of people dining alone in the US increasing by 53% over the past two decades.
On the other end of the spectrum, Afghanistan ranked as the unhappiest country in the world, followed closely by Sierra Leone and Lebanon.
The report’s findings serve as a reminder that happiness is a complex and multifaceted concept that goes beyond economic indicators. By prioritizing community, trust, and social connection, countries can foster a happier and more fulfilling environment for their citizens.