The World Happiness Report 2025 has been released where Finland has maintained its position as the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year. Report is published by Oxford University’s Wellbeing Research Center wherein Denmark Iceland and Sweden are in the top four. The report also highlights the world’s most unhappy nations also. Nordic Nations Top List Finland continues to lead in the list of happiest countries in the world. The Nordic region is still dominant in the list. Countries like Denmark Iceland and Sweden also are at top spots. Researchers gave credit to economic prosperity and positive societal outlook. Declining Rankings For U.S. And U.K. While Nordic nations have still maintained their positions countries like the United States and the United Kingdom’s rankings have fallen. The U.S. once used to be in the top 20 has gone down further. Experts suggest that rising social inequality stress and mental health issues are contributing factors. Similarly the U.K. has seen a decline in happiness in developed nations. Afghanistan A ‘Saddest Country’ One more time Afghanistan has been ranked as the unhappiest country in the world. Sierra Leone in West Africa is at the second spot followed by Lebanon as the third most unhappy country. Other nations in the bottom ranks include Malawi Zimbabwe Botswana the Democratic Republic of Congo Yemen Comoros and Lesotho. Happiness Ranking Criteria According to Gallup CEO Jon Clifton happiness is not merely a byproduct of wealth or development but is deeply influenced by trust and mutual support within societies. Small social factors such as sharing meals with family having someone trustworthy to rely on and community cooperation play a significant role in determining happiness. Costa Rica And Mexico Join Top 10 This year Costa Rica and Mexico have entered the top 10 happiest nations for the first time. The report reveals that families with four to five members in these countries live highly satisfied lives. Israel has also maintained its position as the eighth happiest country.