Belgium is making significant strides in global happiness, nearing a return to the top ten happiest countries worldwide. According to the 13th edition of the World Happiness Report, released on International Happiness Day, Belgium has risen to 14th place, a five-position increase since 2022. Surveyed Belgians reported an average life evaluation score of 6.91 out of 10.

While Belgium’s ranking has improved, the actual life evaluation score has remained relatively stable and is lower than its peak in 2005, when it ranked sixth globally with a score of 7.26. Despite this, its current position reflects the highest three-year average since the report's inception.

Nordic Nations Lead, Global Trends Emerge

Finland continues its reign as the world's happiest country for the eighth consecutive year, followed by Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden. The report highlights that Nordic countries consistently score high due to factors like wealth redistribution and strong welfare systems.

A notable trend is the rise of Central Eastern European countries, such as Lithuania, Slovenia, and Czechia, now in the top 20. Conversely, major industrial powers like Germany, the US, and the UK have fallen out of the top 20 for the first time. The US reached its lowest-ever position at 24th, while the UK reported its lowest average life evaluation since 2017, at 23rd. Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the ranking, with a further decreased score of 1.36.

Social Fabric and Trust Key to Happiness

The World Happiness Report increasingly emphasizes the importance of social factors. Costa Rica and Mexico, which entered the top ten for the first time, exemplify this trend. Their significant rise is attributed to the recovery of their social fabric after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Researchers highlight the importance of social trust, noting that in Nordic countries, people have a higher expectation of lost wallets being returned, indicating strong social trust. Globally, people consistently underestimate the kindness of others.

The report also explores the impact of shared meals on happiness. Researchers found that the frequency of eating meals with others is strongly correlated with life satisfaction, comparable to employment status and income. In Belgium, people averaged 8.3 out of 14 weekly meals with others.