What observers say
“The average happiness score for Canadians has been declining recently, more so than in almost all other countries,” stated Christopher Barrington-Leigh, a key contributor to the World Happiness Report 2026. This alarming trend reflects a broader global context where happiness levels are fluctuating significantly.
In the latest report, Finland has been ranked as the happiest country in the world for the ninth consecutive year, showcasing a remarkable consistency in its social policies and community engagement. Meanwhile, Canada has dropped to 25th place, a stark contrast to its 5th place ranking in 2015. This decline raises questions about the factors contributing to the diminishing happiness among Canadians.
The report indicates a significant decrease in happiness among youth under 25 in Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand over the last decade. Barrington-Leigh noted, “Those who use social media more are less happy,” highlighting the detrimental impact of intensive social media use on young people’s well-being.
Furthermore, Costa Rica has made a notable leap in the rankings, entering the top 5 at 4th place, up from 23rd in 2023. This shift suggests that social connections and community quality play a central role in overall well-being, as emphasized by Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, who commented, “We think this is due to the quality of their social life and the stability they currently enjoy.”
The report is based on responses from approximately 100,000 people across 140 countries and territories, providing a comprehensive overview of global happiness trends. The happiness index for Canada, including Quebec, stands at 6.589 out of 10, while Quebec itself scores slightly higher at 7.255, ranking it 5th, tied with Sweden.
However, the findings are concerning, particularly for young Canadians, who are among the three countries experiencing the most significant decrease in happiness since 2011, with a reported drop of 1.138 in their happiness score. This trend raises urgent questions about the societal and environmental factors affecting youth today.
At the bottom of the rankings, Afghanistan remains the unhappiest country in the world, illustrating the stark disparities in happiness levels globally. As nations grapple with these findings, the next steps in addressing these issues will be crucial for improving overall well-being.