Happiness is an elusive concept and it can be hard to measure. However, the concept of happiness and well-being has been gaining attention in recent years, and it has become an important indicator of a nation’s progress.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) publishes an annual World Happiness Report, which ranks countries based on their levels of happiness. The report examines several factors such as income, social support, life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption. In this article, we will look at the top 10 countries in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020.
Finland – The Happiest Country in the World
Finland retained the top spot for the third year running in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020. The country has a population of approximately 5.5 million and is known for its beautiful nature, clean air, and high-quality education system.
Finland has strong social support networks, which contribute to the high happiness scores of its citizens. The country is also known for its gender equality, and it offers comprehensive social security and healthcare systems.
Denmark – Home to the Happiest People in Europe
Denmark ranks second in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020. The country is known for its concept of “hygge,” which is all about creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
Denmark has one of the best work-life balances in the world, and its citizens enjoy a high standard of living. The country has a strong social welfare system, and it provides free education and healthcare to its citizens.
Switzerland – The Happiest Country in the World in 2015 and 2019
Switzerland ranks third in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020. The country is known for its beautiful landscapes, high standard of living, and excellent healthcare system. Switzerland has a low unemployment rate and a highly skilled labor force.
The country also has a strong culture of civic engagement, and its citizens have a high level of trust in their government.
Iceland – A Peaceful and Happy Country
Iceland ranks fourth in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020. The country is known for its stunning landscapes, geothermal energy, and thriving tourism industry.
Iceland has a small population of approximately 364,000, which contributes to the strong social ties among its citizens. The country has a low crime rate, and it is known for its high level of gender equality.
Norway – A Country that Values Social Equality
Norway ranks fifth in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020. The country is known for its high standard of living, low levels of income inequality, and strong social welfare system.
Norway has a highly skilled workforce, and it is a leader in renewable energy and sustainable development. The country also has a high level of trust in its government.
The Netherlands – A Country with a High Quality of Life
The Netherlands ranks sixth in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020. The country is known for its progressive policies on social issues such as LGBT rights and drug legalization.
The Netherlands has a high standard of living, and it is one of the most densely populated countries in Europe. The country has a strong economy, and it is a leader in the fields of agriculture, water management, and logistics.
Sweden – A Country with High Levels of Social Support
Sweden ranks seventh in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020. The country is known for its welfare state, which provides comprehensive social security and healthcare to its citizens.
Sweden has a highly skilled and innovative workforce, and it is a leader in technology and sustainability. The country is also known for its progressive policies on social issues such as gender equality and LGBTQ rights.
New Zealand – One of the Most Beautiful Countries in the World
New Zealand ranks eighth in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020. The country is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and thriving tourism industry. New Zealand is a peaceful and stable country, and it has a low crime rate.
The country also has a strong culture of outdoor recreation, and it is a leader in renewable energy and sustainable development.
Austria – A Country with a High Quality of Life
Austria ranks ninth in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020. The country is known for its stunning scenery, vibrant cultural scene, and high quality of life.
Austria has a highly educated workforce, and it provides free education and healthcare to its citizens. The country also has a strong economy, and it is a leader in tourism, energy, and sustainable development.
Luxembourg – A Small but Prosperous Nation
Luxembourg rounds out the top 10 countries in the Global Happiness Rankings 2020. The country is known for its high standard of living, strong economy, and multiculturalism.
Luxembourg has a small population of approximately 626,000, which contributes to the strong social ties among its citizens. The country also has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce, and it is a leader in finance and technology.