For the eighth consecutive year, Finland has claimed the top spot in the World Happiness Report, a global survey that ranks countries based on factors such as GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and perceptions of corruption. This year's report, the 13th edition, highlights a stark contrast between the happiest countries and those struggling with declining happiness and social trust. The United States, for instance, has reached its lowest ranking yet at No. 24, reflecting broader trends of political polarization and social discord.

The Nordic Model of Happiness

Finland's consistent ranking as the world's happiest country is no accident. The report underscores the importance of comprehensive social support systems, high-quality healthcare, and education in fostering happiness. According to Ilana Ron-Levey, managing director at Gallup, "Nordic countries like Finland continue to benefit from universally available and high-quality health, education, and social support systems. Inequality of wellbeing is also low."

These systems are crucial, but they are only part of the story. The people of Finland also play a significant role in maintaining their country's high happiness levels. John Helliwell, a founding editor of the World Happiness Report and an economics professor emeritus at the University of British Columbia, points out that social cohesion and trust are vital components of happiness. "Having a welfare state doesn’t find lost wallets and return them to the owners," Helliwell notes, referring to data showing that Nordic nations rank among the top places for the expected and actual return of lost wallets. "Those are individuals caring about the people with whom they live."

Historical Unity and Social Trust

Finland's history also contributes to its current happiness levels. Helliwell cites the unity and trust that emerged from the Winter War (1939-1940), also known as the Russo-Finnish War, as a significant factor. "They didn’t win that war, but what they did is they came together and realized even against overwhelming power they could do remarkably well," he explains. "Sometimes the challenge posed externally can bring you together."

A less materialistic mindset may also work in Finland's favor. Helliwell suggests that focusing on personal relationships rather than material possessions is increasingly important in today's world. This approach fosters a sense of community and mutual support, which are essential for happiness.

Rising Stars in Happiness

Two Latin American countries, Costa Rica and Mexico, have entered the top 10 for the first time in the 2025 report, ranking No. 6 and No. 10, respectively. Ron-Levey attributes their success to "strong social networks and strong perceptions about the direction of their economy and confidence in leaders and institutions." The Netherlands (No. 5), Israel (No. 8), and Luxembourg (No. 9) round out the top 10, while Australia (No. 11) and New Zealand (No. 12) follow closely behind.

Challenges in the United States and Other English-Speaking Countries

The United States' decline in the happiness rankings is particularly concerning. At No. 24, the US has reached its lowest position since the report began. According to Ron-Levey, the decline in 2024 was partly due to younger Americans feeling worse about their lives. "Today’s young people report feeling less supported by friends and family, less free to make life choices, and less optimistic about their living standards," she says.

The UK (No. 23) also reported its lowest average life evaluation since 2017, while Canada (No. 18) has seen happiness declines over the past decade. These trends highlight the need for improved social support systems and a shift in societal attitudes to foster greater happiness and trust.

The Power of Positive Perception

Helliwell emphasizes that one key to happiness is adopting a more positive outlook towards others. "Look seriously at the people with whom you are working, with whom you are living, who are on your streets, and put on a rosier set of glasses when you’re dealing with them," he advises. "That’ll change your behavior in traffic. It’ll change your behavior in political discussions. It’ll change everything."

Talking less and listening more can also lead to more cooperative attitudes and increased happiness. "Negativity is poisonous to happiness," Helliwell notes. By fostering a more positive and supportive environment, individuals and societies can improve their overall sense of well-being.

The Bottom of the List

While Finland and its Nordic neighbors lead the happiness rankings, the bottom of the list reveals countries facing significant challenges. Afghanistan (No. 147) is once again last, followed by Sierra Leone (No. 146), Lebanon (No. 145), Malawi (No. 144), and Zimbabwe (No. 143). These countries struggle with issues such as political instability, economic hardship, and social unrest, which significantly impact their residents' happiness levels.

The World Happiness Report provides valuable insights into the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being. Finland's continued success highlights the importance of comprehensive social support systems, strong social cohesion, and a focus on personal relationships over material possessions. While the US and other English-speaking countries face challenges, there is hope for improvement through positive perception shifts and increased social support.

As Helliwell suggests, adopting a more positive outlook towards others can have a profound impact on happiness. By fostering a sense of community and mutual support, societies can create environments where happiness thrives. The lessons from Finland and other top-ranking countries offer a roadmap for those seeking to improve their own well-being and that of their communities.