Why Finland Is the World’s Happiest Country, Again

For the eighth consecutive year, Finland is the world’s happiest country, as indicated by the World Happiness Report 2025. The report, which is an annual comparison of more than 140 nations, relies on social support, health, freedom, generosity, perceived corruption, and gross domestic product (GDP).

Finland’s success has been attributed to some significant reasons:

• Health and Prosperity: Finns have a high standard of living and robust healthcare facilities.
• Social Relationships: Strong social bonds and community support systems exist.
• Nature Connection: Tightly tied to nature leads to overall well-being.

Finns “have social connections, social support, [and] a connection with nature. They’re not happy, joyful, dancing in the streets type people, but they’re very content with their lives,” says Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, editor of The World Happiness Report and University of Oxford economist.

The following four nations after Finland are the happiest nations, in order : Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and the Netherlands. Mexico and Costa Rica entered the top 10 lists, respectively, at positions 6 and 10. The United States dropped, but to place 24. Its decline is partly because of increasing eating alone and increasing “deaths of despair” by alcohol overdose, and intoxication.

India has moved slightly, from 126th in 2024 to 118th in the 2025 report. Even so, India is ranked below most of the conflict-torn countries such as Ukraine, Mozambique, and Iraq. India’s social support strengths are mentioned in the report as being a strong family culture and tradition of large families. Low scores in perceived freedom, which indicate people feel stuck with life choices, are mentioned as a reference.

Finland’s long-term happiness has lessons for us all:

1. Adopt Natural Light: Despite long, gloomy winters, Finns take full advantage of natural light during extended summer days, increasing serotonin and vitamin D levels.
2. Sauna Culture: Sauna use is regular, and it is a stress-relief and relaxation culture.
3. Nature Experience: Proximity to nature is a must, as it promotes relaxation and creativity.
4. Sisu (Resilience): This Finnish attitude is about remaining positive and persisting during hardships.

World Happiness Report 2025 illustrates the role of social support, freedom, and participation in the community as a significant factor that enhances national well-being. Even though Finland maintains the lead position, nations such as India can learn from it to make people happier and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Happiness is influenced by social connections, health, and lifestyle choices. What steps do you think individuals and governments can take to improve happiness levels in your country?