Finland has once again reclaimed its title as the happiest country in the world, according to the 2024 World Happiness Report. This marks seven consecutive years of Finland's reign as the happiest nation on Earth, a feat matched by four other Nordic countries, including Denmark (2nd), Iceland (3rd), Sweden (4th), and Norway (7th).
In the World Happiness Report 2024, Finland's consistent happiness is attributed to its sustainable way of life, where success is defined by the ability to identify and fulfill basic needs. According to Arto O. Salonen, a professor at the University of Eastern Finland researching Finnish societal well-being, "When you know what is enough, you are happy."
Teemu Kiiski, the CEO of Finnish Design Shop, emphasizes that happiness in the Nordic countries is fundamental and often regarded as a light-hearted concept. This sentiment is echoed by residents, who credit Finland's high quality of life and robust welfare system for fostering a sense of security and inclusion within society.
One significant aspect contributing to Finnish happiness is the country's commitment to public funding for education and the arts, allowing individuals the freedom to pursue creative interests without the pressure of commercial value. This approach encourages experimental art forms, as noted by Hertta Kiiski, wife of Teemu Kiiski.
However, while Finland's government ensures a solid foundation for satisfying lives and promising futures, the pressure to maintain its national reputation can also lead to long-term consequences. Frank Martela, a psychology researcher at Aalto University, suggests that Finland's continued dominance in happiness rankings may eventually burden its citizens.
The Finnish way of life embodies "sisu," a national character trait loosely translated as "perseverance in the face of adversity," akin to enduring the long winter months. This resilience fosters a culture where complaining is discouraged, even in challenging circumstances.
According to Timo Viherkenttä, a law and tax professor at Aalto University, Finland's happiness is primarily driven by two factors: education and health, made possible through their substantial tax contributions. The societal consensus is that higher taxes yield invaluable social programs, enhancing health, happiness, and overall quality of life.
Finland's superior education system, from primary schools to universities, is heavily subsidized by the government, ensuring accessibility for all. Similarly, universal healthcare services, funded by taxpayers, guarantee free healthcare for all citizens, with additional paid services for specialized care.
In essence, Finnish citizens embrace high taxes as they directly translate into quality healthcare, education, and measurable pension benefits, culminating in a high quality of life and collective happiness. Such conditions are rare in countries with poor social welfare systems and high corruption levels, where citizens are skeptical of tax payments being misappropriated.
In conclusion, Finland's recipe for happiness lies in its robust social welfare system, prioritizing education and healthcare for all. While taxes may seem burdensome elsewhere, in Finland, they are viewed as investments in societal well-being and, ultimately, the key to sustained happiness.