In the latest iteration of the World Happiness Report for 2024, Finland has once again emerged triumphant, claiming the top spot as the happiest country on the planet for the seventh consecutive year. This northern European nation, along with its Nordic counterparts, has showcased a consistent dominance in fostering societal contentment and well-being.
Finland's reign atop the happiness index is not merely a statistical anomaly but a testament to its deeply ingrained societal values and robust welfare system. According to Arto O. Salonen, a professor at the University of Eastern Finland, the Finnish populace derives satisfaction from leading sustainable lives and recognizing the fulfillment of basic needs as a cornerstone of success.
"In other words, when you know what is enough, you are happy," remarks Salonen.
The sentiment is echoed by Teemu Kiiski, the CEO of Finnish Design Shop, who perceives happiness in the Nordic context as a fundamental aspect, rendering the term "lightweight."
For the residents of Turku, Finland, the foundation of their collective sense of security and inclusion lies in the high quality of life entrenched within the nation's welfare system. This system, which allocates public funding for education, arts, and individual artist grants, empowers individuals to pursue their creative endeavors freely.
"This also influences the type of work we produce because we don't have to think about the commercial value of art. So, what many artists create here is highly experimental," notes Hertta Kiiski, Teemu's spouse.
Achieving happiness in Finland is facilitated by a government committed to ensuring a solid foundation for a fulfilling life and promising future. However, the weight of maintaining this national reputation can also breed long-term pressures, as highlighted by Frank Martela, a psychology researcher at Aalto University.
"In this regard, slipping to the second happiest country could have implications for Finland's long-term happiness," Martela remarks.
The Finnish way of life is encapsulated in "sisu," a facet of the national character roughly translated as "a strong determination in the face of adversity," such as the long winter months. Even in challenging circumstances, Finns are expected to endure without complaint.
Unraveling the Secrets of Finnish Happiness
Timo Viherkenttä, a law and tax professor at Aalto University, identifies education and health as the primary contributors to Finnish happiness. These factors are made possible through the substantial taxes paid by citizens.
"There is a consensus in society that although residents pay higher taxes, they also receive many social programs that enhance health, happiness, and overall quality of life in return. These publicly funded social programs are available to everyone, regardless of whether you are rich or poor," Viherkenttä explains.
"I believe health is a key factor in happiness. In Finland, there is always a heated discussion on how to improve the healthcare and education systems - we prioritize these key initiatives to stay ahead," Viherkenttä elucidates.
Finland excels in education compared to many other nations worldwide. From elementary schools to universities, the entire Finnish education system is one of the most government-funded social structures, mostly free for its citizens.
Moreover, there's a universal healthcare system also funded by the government. In this country, every citizen is entitled to free healthcare services, although there are some paid healthcare services for certain serious conditions, such as consultations with cardiologists and the like.
Fundamentally, Finnish residents are undeterred by high tax policies because the money they contribute translates into benefits like quality healthcare and education, even clearly measured pension funds. Taxes in Finland undoubtedly contribute to creating a high-quality life that ultimately fosters happiness among its populace.
Such conditions may be hard to come by in countries with poor social guarantees and high levels of corruption. In such nations, residents tend to resist paying taxes due to skepticism regarding whether the funds will be siphoned off by corrupt individuals.
In conclusion, Finland's unparalleled commitment to social welfare, education, and healthcare, underpinned by a robust taxation system, serves as a blueprint for cultivating happiness and well-being, offering invaluable lessons for nations striving to prioritize the prosperity of their citizens.