The International Day of Happiness is a global celebration organised by the United Nations.
On the day, 193 UN member states join together to highlight the importance of human joy and wellbeing.
Since 2011, the UN has adopted happiness as a “fundamental human goal” and has declared its commitment to creating “a more inclusive, equitable and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes the happiness and wellbeing of all peoples”.
But, when is the day celebrated, what is this year’s theme and what are the origins of the special occasion? Here is everything we know.
When is the International Day of Happiness 2024?
The International Day of Happiness takes place on March 20. It is the day the UN releases its World Happiness Report, which ranks countries by their happiness levels using survey data from over 150 countries.
This year, Finland has topped the list again, for the sixth year in a row, with Denmark, Iceland, Israel, Netherlands and Sweden taking the other top five spots. The United Kingdom was ranked as the 19th happiest country in the world, two spots lower than last year.
What is this year’s theme?
This year, the theme is “Happier together”.
The special occasion’s website says: “At this time of uncertainty and conflict, this year’s ‘Happier Together’ theme reminds us that lasting happiness comes from feeling connected to others and being part of something bigger.”
It encourages people to pledge to create more happiness and less unhappiness in the world.
What are the origins of the International Day of Happiness?
The first International Day of Happiness was held on March 20, 2013, with singer-songwriter Pharrell Williams performing his global hit Happy.
It was spurred on by UN adviser Jayme Illien’s years of campaigning. He established the idea at the first-ever UN conference on Happiness on July 12, 2012.
The first celebration was launched by Ndaba Mandela and Chelsea Clinton at the TedXTeen conference in New York City in March 2013.
All member states of the UN are encouraged to observe the celebration to raise awareness of the importance of happiness for humanity.
Why is happiness so important?
Read More
Scientific studies suggest that those who are happy tend to live longer, have fewer serious health problems like heart issues, and are more productive members of society.
They also have lower stress hormones in the body, leading to significantly fewer cases of mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Its personal benefits aside, the economic impact of fewer psychological and physical disorders is astonishing, as those who are unwell have decreased productivity, creativity, and motivation, and can need significant support from their families and governments.
Thus, happier individuals lead to more joyful societies and stronger nations.
