Finland, world's happiest country - but what does it really mean?

For the eighth straight year, Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world, according to the 2025 World Happiness Report.

This ranking, based on factors such as social trust, economic stability and overall wellbeing, highlights the Nordic nation’s strong social infrastructure and commitment to quality of life.

Nordic countries lead the way

All five Nordic countries secured places in the top 10, with Denmark, Iceland, Sweden and Norway ranked second, third, fourth and seventh.

Their high scores reflect robust welfare systems, low inequality and strong trust in governance. All these contribute to their consistently high quality of life.

Why so happy?

Having travelled extensively through the region, I observed firsthand the factors contributing to their wellbeing. A strong social safety net, accessible healthcare and a deep-rooted sense of community provide stability. These factors explain their consistent top rankings.

However, happiness in Finland is often defined differently from how it is perceived elsewhere.

Finnish perspective

To gain deeper insight, I contacted my Finnish friend and former colleague, Satu Spratley, who shared her thoughts: “Finns and the Finnish media celebrate the ranking, proud of the country’s strengths and unique aspects of wellbeing, such as sauna culture, cold-water swimming and a deep appreciation for the outdoors in all seasons.”

“The ranking reflects Finland’s strong healthcare education, and social welfare systems, as well as trust in democracy,” she said.

However, she added that, as with many rankings, Finns are naturally analytical and sceptical, questioning whether the country’s top spot truly captures the state of Finnish society. The ranking may overlook significant societal challenges such as the mental health issues that many face.

An accurate happiness measure?

Some experts argue that the term happiness can be misleading, as the survey primarily measures life satisfaction rather than momentary emotional wellbeing.

Finnish social media users have debated the ranking, pointing to societal challenges such as economic hardship, mental health concerns, and strains on the healthcare system.

Markku Ojanen, a reputable Finnish happiness researcher and professor of psychology at the University of Tampere, quoted in an article by Ilta-Sanomat (22 March), acknowledged this contradiction. He has been long puzzled by how Finland ranks so highly despite high rates of depression and substance abuse.

However, Prof Ojanen pointed out that Finns should remember that conditions in many other countries are far worse, and they often don’t realise how much better their own situation is.

President’s take on happiness

Finnish President Alexander Stubb also reflected on the ranking in a 20 March post on X: “For us Finns, being happy or content with life has at least 5.6 million reasons. In other words, we all have our own take on happiness.

“I personally think that happiness is closely linked to meaning. And meaning often comes from making others happy. That feeling when you help a friend and bring a smile to their face. In today’s tumultuous world we all need it.

“Life is never perfect and no one can be happy all the time, and sometimes circumstance makes it difficult. But getting the basics right – security, freedom and equality – is a good start.”

Stubb also encouraged visitors to experience Finland’s unique way of life: “So, next time you are thinking about visiting a new place, why don’t you come and enjoy Finnish hospitality, nature and food. And if you are brave enough you can try one of our 2.2 million saunas.

“Finland, even cooler than you think!”

Public reactions and social debate

While some Finns view the ranking with pride, others have reacted with scepticism. They questioning their country’s status as the happiest when so many struggle with mental health and economic stress.

“Aren’t we pretty depressed and on mood medication? How bad is everyone else doing?” – Unofficial translation, Ilta-Sanomat, 22 March

Other commentators point out that many other countries have similar problems, and that Finland also has many positives: the commendable status of women, the breathtaking landscapes and freedom of speech.

Global reactions and surprises

Finland’s consistently high ranking has intrigued many international observers. While some admire Finland’s strengths, others question the methodology, particularly given the inclusion of countries facing significant social and political challenges.

I too had my doubts about this year’s rankings when Israel (8th) and Mexico (10th) also made it to the top 10. Both countries had more than their fair share of problems in 2024.

Their placement has sparked further discussions on how happiness is measured and whether the rankings fully capture a nation’s lived reality.

Ongoing discussion on happiness

Interestingly, some Finns themselves struggle to relate to the notion of their country as the “happiest” in the world.

In Finnish culture, happiness is often associated with stability, security and contentment rather than overt displays of joy or extroversion.

The World Happiness Report offers valuable insights into global wellbeing, but it also invites deeper reflection. What defines happiness? Is it the presence of strong social systems, economic stability or a cultural mindset?

As Finland continues to lead the ranking, the discussion about happiness – both within Finland and globally – remains more relevant than ever.

With grateful thanks for input from Satu Spratley in Helsinki, Finland.

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