As every year, the World Happiness Report publishes its ranking of the countries in which life is better. In 2024, the Scandinavian countries once again dominate the podium, while France, with its 27th position, pushes us to question our own happiness. So, where is happiness , where is it?
How do you measure happiness?
Measuring happiness may seem subjective, but the World Happiness Report uses well-defined criteria to establish its ranking. Researchers rely primarily on six key factors:
● per capita income;
● social support;
● healthy lifespan;
● the freedom to make life choices;
● generosity;
● the perception of corruption.
Good to know : Although the rankings are based solely on the responses of the respondents, specialists in economics, psychology and sociology are then asked to analyze this data and establish evaluations based on these six variables.
Top 10: ranking of the happiest countries in the world
Now let’s get down to business! Here are the 10 happiest countries in the world in 2024.
-
Finland
Finland has retained its top spot for the sixth year in a row. With its snowy landscapes and saunas on every street corner, who wouldn't be happy here? With a life expectancy of around 82 years, Finland also stands out for its supportive community, where 96% of the population say they can count on others in times of need (OECD report).
-
Denmark
The Danes are the kings of “hygge”, the art of living that combines comfort and conviviality. With their soft sofas and their sense of design, they transform every moment into a little party and know how to relax. Plus, hot chocolate is almost a right!
-
Iceland
With its geysers, volcanoes and breathtaking landscapes, Iceland is a true paradise for nature lovers. Icelanders also have a superpower: not letting the cold get them down. After all, who doesn't love a good mutton stew by the fire after a freezing hike?
-
Suede
Sweden is known for its incredible quality of life. Swedes know how to balance work and play. They are even known for their famous “fika”, a sacred coffee break where people enjoy pastries. So, how about a little cinnamon coffee?
-
Israel
Israel, the land of start-ups and good humor, also made it into the top 10. Israelis are known for their sense of humor and friendliness, despite regional tensions and conflicts.
-
The Netherlands
With its picturesque canals and colorful tulips, the Netherlands is a dream come true. The Dutch are among the happiest thanks to their relaxed lifestyle. It’s hard not to be inspired by their active, outdoor lifestyle, where many travel by bike!
-
Norway
Norway is another model of happiness, with its majestic fjords and its commitment to the environment. Norwegians take advantage of the long summer nights to get together around a barbecue. Even if the weather is cool, a good woolen sweater makes all the difference.
-
Luxembourg
Small but mighty, Luxembourg ranks high in happiness. Thanks to a high standard of living and a thriving economy, Luxembourgers live serenely. This economic prosperity is also reflected in a solid social system, guaranteeing access to healthcare, education and an optimal quality of life.
-
Swiss
In the same spirit, Switzerland, with its mountains and chocolates, makes more than one person dream. This country is distinguished by its high-quality education system and a population largely committed to preserving the environment. Good reasons to be happy!
-
Australia
Australia completes this top 10 with its sunny climate and heavenly beaches. Australians, known for their laid-back attitude, often spend their days surfing and barbecuing. A dream life where every day feels like a vacation!
Scandinavian countries - still at the top of the ranking
Once again, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Sweden stand out as role models when it comes to happiness. Finland, in particular, has retained its position as the happiest country in the world for the sixth year in a row. And yet, we know that they are not the most spoiled in terms of sunshine…
These countries have several winter months where daylight is scarce, but apparently they have found a secret recipe for cultivating happiness...
Scandinavian people embrace the cold season with activities like skiing, ice skating and the famous Christmas markets. They also enjoy evenings around a warm fire, where they share laughter and stories.
Their ability to transform climate challenges into moments of conviviality and joy is undoubtedly one of the reasons that propels them to the top of this ranking. Yes, even without the sun, these countries illuminate our vision of happiness!
Let's also not forget that they largely make up for it during the summer, when the sun shines almost continuously.
Why are Scandinavians happier?
One of the main factors behind this high satisfaction is the Scandinavian socio-economic model . Indeed, these countries benefit from an excellent social protection system, free education and access to quality healthcare. This material and social security allows citizens to focus on more qualitative aspects of their lives, such as interpersonal relationships and the search for meaning.
What’s more, the work culture in these countries often focuses on work-life balance . Employees are encouraged to take breaks, enjoy their vacations, and spend time with their families. This balance contributes to better mental health and an overall sense of satisfaction. In other words, they embrace the hygge trend , which is an art of living centered on conviviality and the appreciation of the small pleasures of everyday life.
So where is happiness?
The Scandinavian countries seem to have found the recipe: happiness probably lies in the notion of balance, taking time for oneself, sharing moments with our loved ones and above all, the ability to appreciate the little things in life .
So, the next time you sip a coffee on a terrace or share a good meal with friends, remember: you already have everything you need to be happy!
You might help France move up in the rankings! ( 27th in 2024 as a reminder….could do better, right?)