Finland, a Nordic country located in Northern Europe, has been named the happiest country in the world for the fourth year in a row. This title was awarded in the World Happiness Report, an annual publication of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, which ranks countries based on factors such as income, social support, and life expectancy. So, what makes Finland the happiest country in the world?
- Education
Finland has one of the best education systems in the world. Education is free for all, including university education. Teachers are highly trained, and the curriculum is designed to help students become independent and innovative thinkers. The focus is on the holistic development of children, and they are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning.
- Social Support
Finland has a strong social welfare system that provides support to its citizens. The system is designed to ensure that everyone has access to basic needs such as healthcare, education, and housing. This helps to reduce inequality and ensure that everyone has an equal chance to succeed.
- Nature
Finland is a country of vast forests, lakes, and islands. Nearly 70% of the country is covered by forest, making it one of the most forested countries in Europe. Nature is an important part of Finnish culture, and the country has a unique concept known as “Everyman’s Rights.” This means that everyone has the right to roam freely in nature, regardless of who owns the land. This allows people to enjoy the beauty of nature and promotes a healthy lifestyle.
- Work-Life Balance
Finland is known for its excellent work-life balance. Most companies offer flexible working hours, and it is not uncommon for employees to leave work early to spend time with family or engage in leisure activities. The country also has a generous parental leave policy, which allows both parents to take time off work to care for their newborn.
- Sauna Culture
Sauna is an integral part of Finnish culture. There are over three million saunas in Finland, which is impressive considering the population is only 5.5 million. Sauna is not just a way to relax, but it is also considered a social activity. People gather in saunas to socialize, discuss business, and even make important decisions. The sauna culture in Finland promotes a sense of community and encourages people to take time to slow down and relax.
- Sense of Safety
Finland is considered one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are low, and the country has a strong sense of community. People trust each other, and there is a high level of social cohesion. This creates a sense of safety and security that is essential for happiness.
- Design
Finnish design is known for its simplicity, functionality, and sustainability. The country has produced some of the most iconic designs in the world, including the Marimekko textile prints and the Alvar Aalto furniture. Finnish design is not just about aesthetics; it is about creating products that are functional and sustainable, which aligns with the country’s values.
In conclusion, Finland’s happiness can be attributed to a combination of factors such as its education system, social welfare, nature, work-life balance, sauna culture, sense of safety, and design. These factors contribute to a society that values community, equality, and sustainability. Finland’s success in promoting happiness serves as an inspiration to other countries looking to improve the well-being of their citizens.