The 2026 World Happiness Report ranks Finland as the world’s happiest country for the ninth consecutive year, while Bangladesh stands 127th among 147 countries. Iceland, Denmark, Costa Rica, Sweden and Norway follow Finland, with the Netherlands, Israel, Luxembourg and Switzerland also included in the top 10.

The report reflects questions about whether economic growth, development or higher per-capita income necessarily increase life satisfaction. An 85-year Harvard University study cited in the article found that money, fame and power do not provide long-term happiness; strong and deep social relationships are most important for keeping people happy and healthy.

Finland leads because it receives top scores across all six United Nations criteria used to determine happy countries, according to the article. State-funded healthcare and education, strong financial and social protection, and a Housing First policy are cited as reducing insecurity. The country is also described as transparent and among the least corrupt, fostering trust in public institutions and among citizens. Finnish work culture discourages overtime, typically limits work to 35–40 hours weekly and provides four to five weeks of paid annual leave.