The International Day of Happiness is celebrated globally on March 20 each year. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 through resolution 66/281, this day recognizes happiness and well-being as universal goals and aspirations in human life. The inaugural celebration took place in 2013.
The primary objective of this day is to highlight the significance of happiness in our lives and encourage governments, organizations, and individuals worldwide to prioritize well-being in their policies and daily practices. The United Nations emphasizes that happiness should be considered a fundamental human right and a central focus in the pursuit of sustainable development.
Each year, the International Day of Happiness is associated with a specific theme. For instance, the theme for 2025 is “Caring and Sharing,” aiming to promote positive connections and community support as essential components of happiness.
In conjunction with this day, the United Nations releases the World Happiness Report, which ranks countries based on factors such as income, social support, life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.
The 2025 report, published on March 20, reveals that Finland has maintained its position as the happiest country for the eighth consecutive year. Conversely, the United States has fallen to its lowest-ever ranking, placing 24th out of 140 countries.
Celebrations of the International Day of Happiness include various activities such as community events, educational programs, and social media campaigns designed to spread joy and encourage positive interactions. These initiatives aim to foster a global culture that values happiness and well-being as essential components of human development.
In summary, the International Day of Happiness serves as a reminder of the importance of happiness and well-being in our lives, advocating for a collective effort to create a more joyful and compassionate world.