In the latest World Happiness Report, Malta has been ranked 40th among the happiest countries globally, a drop of three places compared to its 2022 ranking. This report, which assesses the well-being of people across 143 countries from 2021 to 2023, aims to reveal the levels of happiness around the world and explore the various factors influencing it. The report not only analyzes happiness across different age groups but also presents thought-provoking findings that have sparked widespread social attention and discussion.
According to the report, young people in Western Europe have experienced a decline in happiness in recent years, likely due to socioeconomic pressures, employment challenges, and uncertainties about the future. In contrast, residents in Central and Eastern Europe have seen significant improvements in happiness across all age groups, reflecting steady economic growth and enhanced social welfare in the region. East Asian countries have also recorded notable increases in happiness, possibly linked to economic development, educational investments, and improved health care. However, happiness levels in South Asia and the Middle East and North Africa have generally declined across all age groups, likely due to political instability, economic difficulties, and social conflicts. One of the most striking findings in the report is the sharp decline in happiness among young people in North America, which has decreased faster than in any other region, possibly due to competitive social pressures, mental health issues, and concerns about social justice and environmental problems.
Malta’s ranking of 40th, with a score of 6.34, indicates that while there has been a slight decline from the previous year, the country continues to strive to provide its residents with a relatively high quality of life and sense of happiness.
Finland once again claimed the title of the happiest country in the world, marking the 16th consecutive year it has held this honor, followed closely by Denmark. This outcome is not surprising, as the top ten happiest countries have remained stable since before the COVID-19 pandemic, consistently including all five Nordic countries, known for their high living standards, comprehensive social welfare, and widespread social trust. The report also highlights significant increases in happiness among Eastern European countries, particularly the Czech Republic, Lithuania, and Slovenia. At the other end of the spectrum, Afghanistan ranks lowest due to prolonged conflict and instability.
This report prompts a deeper reflection on the nature of happiness. For those of us living in Malta, do we feel a different kind of happiness than what the report suggests? Malta, a small island in the heart of the Mediterranean, attracts thousands of tourists and immigrants each year with its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. Whether such a place can bring us happiness may depend more on our individual lifestyles, values, and personal definitions of happiness. Undoubtedly, happiness is a subjective experience, influenced not only by external conditions but also closely tied to our inner states. In a diverse society like Malta, each person’s pursuit and experience of happiness is unique. Regardless of how global happiness rankings fluctuate, what truly matters is finding our own happiness and practicing and experiencing it in our daily lives.
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