According to the World Happiness Report 2024, Finland has been ranked as the happiest country for the 7th time. According to the report, 5 of the top 10 countries are Scandinavian countries.
“Scandinavia” refers to the northern European countries of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and Finland. These countries are famous not only for their natural beauty but also for their happy life. Every year in the World Happiness Report published by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions, these Scandinavian countries are at the top of the list of happiest countries.
Why do these countries rank among the happiest countries and on what basis is this list made?
The World Happiness Report
The World Happiness Report measures happiness in over 140 countries based on six key criteria: GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and government transparency. Scandinavian countries score the highest on all these indicators. There are many reasons behind their happiness.
Economic Stability and Equality
Scandinavian nations adhere to the Nordic Model, which combines a capitalist economy with a strong welfare state. This model ensures both economic growth and social equality, creating an environment where prosperity benefits all citizens.
Progressive tax systems in these countries are highly progressive. High-income earners pay proportionately higher taxes, which fund essential services such as universal healthcare, education, and social welfare programs. The tax system significantly reduces income inequality. As a result, even lower-income citizens can access a high quality of life, including healthcare, education, and housing. From preschool to university free education is available for citizens, which does not pressure the family. It ensures equal access to quality education for everyone, better job prospects, and greater social mobility. All citizens have access to quality healthcare regardless of their income level. Which ensures the well-being of citizens by reducing the burden of healthcare expenditure.
Work and personal life
Maintaining a work-life balance is extremely important in these countries. The working week here is usually 35-37 hours, which helps to live a comfortable life by reducing the workload. In addition to one year of maternity leave for mothers, fathers also get paternity leave. Enjoy 5-6 weeks paid leave every year to travel with family, and spend time with nature. This plays a supporting role in child rearing and keeps family bonds strong.
Social Support and Trust
Social bonds and mutual trust build community through local festivals and cooperative projects. Citizens help others by participating in the various needs of the society. Citizens feel safe as the crime rate is low. As a result, they are connected and bound to social cohesion. Corruption in administration is very low and citizens trust the government as there is transparency in government policy and decision-making process.
Sustainable Environment and Nature
Scandinavian countries implement environmental protection policies to ensure the physical health of citizens. Providing green energy by reducing the use of fossil fuels. Renewable energy is the main source of energy in these countries. Wind power and hydropower are part of the energy system. City centers have parks for the healthy living of citizens. People walk or cycle to reduce vehicular pollution. Hiking, skiing, and fishing are among the best ways to spend time with nature in different seasons. It helps to improve physical health as well as mental health.
Gender Equality
In terms of gender equality, the Scandinavian countries rank the highest position. The participation of women in the political sphere is remarkable. Women are leading in high positions like the Prime Minister. In the corporate sector, women are increasingly represented on company boards and in top management positions. Increase financial independence by ensuring equal pay for equal work for women. Child-rearing responsibilities are shared equally between both parents. As a result of equal opportunities for all, the foundation of unity and harmony is formed as the driving force for living a happy life.
Education and Innovation
Emphasis is placed on developing students’ creativity and problem-solving skills rather than restricting them to textbooks. Students are prepared for the workplace through technical training. Even those who cannot attain higher education can become economically self-sufficient and help reduce the unemployment rate. Innovations include research and investment in digital technologies, artificial intelligence, eco-friendly solutions, and renewable energy. Their education and innovative work is an inspiration not only to their country but also to the world.
Cultural Practices and Values
Hygge is a popular cultural spectacle in Denmark. It teaches you to enjoy the small moments in a busy life, be it a cozy evening, sitting by the fire and drinking coffee. Lagom is a philosophy of Sweden that teaches the philosophy of avoiding unnecessary things in life and taking just as much as you need. The Midsummer festival is popular in Sweden. This festival is celebrated on the longest day of the sun by families and friends. Christmas is celebrated in Norway and Denmark with special food and lights as a symbol of harmony.
Challenges
Ensuring free education and healthcare for the growing immigrant population is challenging. Besides, the language barrier between the local people and the immigrants is a cause of social division. Due to technology and social media, young people are participating less in social interaction. This results in increasing rates of depression and loneliness.
The Scandinavian approach underscores the importance of equity and exemplifies how a combination of economic stability, work-life balance, social trust, and cultural values can create a happy society. Their emphasis on equality, sustainability, and community ensures that citizens not only live longer but also live better. While no system is perfect, the Nordic Model offers valuable lessons for other nations aiming to improve the happiness and well-being of their populations. By integrating these principles, countries worldwide can move closer to the ultimate goal of universal happiness.
