World Happiness Report 2025: Which is the Happiest Country in the World? Check India's Rank

Finland Tops the List Again For the eighth consecutive year, Finland has been named the world's happiest country, according to the recently published World Happiness Report 2025. The rankings continue to be dominated by Nordic nations, with Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden securing positions among the top four.

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Factors Influencing Happiness Rankings

The happiness rankings are derived from global surveys where individuals evaluate their overall life satisfaction. This report is a collaborative effort involving:

• The University of Oxford houses the Wellbeing Research Centre.
• Gallup
• The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network

Key Elements Shaping Happiness

Jon Clifton, CEO of Gallup, that happiness extends beyond financial wealth. Other crucial elements influencing well-being include:

• Trust within communities and strong social bonds
• A sense of security and access to social support systems
• Shared experiences, such as communal activities and traditions
• Family structure and household stability

Notable Research Insights

Impact of Household and Social Support

• Studies indicate that families with four to five members tend to report the highest levels of happiness, particularly in countries like Mexico and several European nations.
• Trust in others plays a critical role—societies where lost wallets are more frequently returned tend to score higher in happiness rankings.

Global Happiness Trends

• Nordic countries continue to excel due to their strong social security, low corruption levels, and high life expectancy.
• Costa Rica and Mexico have made historic gains, entering the top ten for the first time.
• Despite ongoing geopolitical issues, Israel has managed to hold onto its 8th position.
• The United States has seen a significant drop, ranking 24th, compared to its highest position of 11th in 2012.
• The United Kingdom has also recorded a decline, ranking 23rd—its lowest since 2017.
• Afghanistan remains the least happy nation, with women facing particularly severe hardships. Sierra Leone and Lebanon follow as the second and third least happy countries.

Concerns Over Youth and Social Isolation

A troubling trend has emerged among young adults globally:

• In 2023, 19% of young people reported having no social support, marking a 39% increase since 2006.
• This decline in social connectivity underscores a growing challenge for mental health worldwide.

Metrics Used for Happiness Rankings

The rankings are calculated based on life evaluations collected between 2022 and 2024, considering six core factors:

• GDP per capita
• Life expectancy
• Availability of social support
• Freedom in decision-making
• Generosity
• Perceptions of corruption

Top 10 Happiest Countries in 2025

India’s Position in the Happiness Index

India has been ranked 118th out of 147 countries in the 2025 report, reflecting an improvement from its 126th position in 2024. Despite its lower ranking, India's cultural values, strong family structures, and deep-rooted spiritual traditions contribute significantly to happiness levels. Additionally, the government has introduced various welfare programs and mental health initiatives to enhance overall well-being.

Conclusion

The World Happiness Report 2025 highlights the critical role of trust, social relationships, and emotional security in shaping happiness. While Nordic nations continue to lead, countries like Costa Rica and Mexico demonstrate how community values and cultural cohesion can enhance well-being. However, the increasing lack of social support among young adults remains a pressing issue that governments worldwide must address to ensure a more connected and happier future.