As International Happiness Day approaches, it is very important to remember that last year, during the pandemic, stress levels of citizens around the world increased enormously. Whether it was the uncertainty of the future, or worrying about the present, it was a very tough year for everyone.
However, even in the face of pandemic there are still many countries around the world that are “happy” places to live. Here is a list of the happiest nations in the world.
Denmark
Denmark was ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world. This ranking is based on income, life expectancy, social support, trust, freedom and generosity. Denmark currently has 33 working hours work in a week, and a minimum wage of $20. Specifically in this country, working extra hours is frowned upon. The whole country shutdowns during the last weeks of July so their citizens can enjoy the summer weather (as it can get very cold during the winter) with their families. Every Danish student receives around $900 per month.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg, according to the Happiness Index, was ranked at a happiness level of 7.3. Its citizens enjoy the quality of life the nation has to offer. The workers of this country have an average salary of 5,000 euros per month. The fact that it is mostly rural, makes this country a very diverse and rich -not only financial- but rich with nature, architectural buildings, castles and rolling hills.
Finland
Finland has been ranked the world's happiest country for 3 years in a row. Even though the weather in this country is not the most friendly, Finn's are extremely happy. They have a strong commitment to gender equality, high quality education and a sense of loyalty to its culture. It is also considered a safe, stable and free country. The wealth distribution is reasonable, which makes sense because 89% of Finnish people trust the country's police. Not something you can say in a lot of nations of the world.
Switzerland
Switzerland was ranked as the third most happy nation in the world. Switzerland has been on this list for several years, however the last time this country was rated #1 in the World Happiness Report was in 2015. Swiss work 35.2 hours per week, and have an average lifespan of almost 84 years. Even though this country is famous for its chocolate and cheeses, it has one of the lowest obesity rates in Europe.
Austria
Austria is not only beautiful, but its citizens appreciate living here. The rates of unemployment are very low, same as inequality rates (7%). The public healthcare system is free as well as the education system. It is mandatory for all citizens of the nation to take at least 9 years of school and the life expectancy for Austrias is 81 years old.
Iceland
Surprisingly, cold weather is not always an important factor when it comes to happiness. Iceland ranks 7.5 in the Happiness Index. What citizens value the most is the fact that they don't have to worry about the cost of hospitals and doctors appointments because health care is taken care of by the government. Citizens get paid paternity leave, maternity leave and daycare. Yes, taxes are high but they are correctly allocated. The crime levels are also low and the unemployment rate of the nation is under 4%!
Norway
As you can see, Nordic countries are especially happy, and their citizens seem to be very satisfied. Norway’s education system is great and the employees have amazing conditions for work. The healthcare system is excellent and free, and its citizens say they are proud to be living in a democracy. The government even offers insurance for unemployment!
