Ukraine has lost 6 positions in the global happiness ranking, dropping from 105th place last year to 111th this year, according to the annual World Happiness Report.
The Ukrainian state received 4.68 points out of 10 in the ranking of 147 countries. Ukraine was ranked the highest in 2012 (87) and the lowest in 2017 (138).
Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Costa Rica, Norway, Israel, Luxembourg, and Mexico are among the top 20 happiest countries.
The United States ranked 24th, missing the top ten for the second time. Afghanistan was last, followed by Sierra Leone, Lebanon, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.
Poland moved to 26th place, Russia improved its position to 66th, and Moldova dropped to 80th.
The study showed that people underestimate the kindness of strangers. An experiment with lost wallets revealed that they are returned almost twice as often as expected. Experts note that belief in the kindness of others has a more substantial impact on happiness than was thought.
It is noted that people are often pessimistic, although the reality is more positive.
The 2025 report found that in the United States and parts of Europe, happiness and trust are declining due to political polarization. Joint dinners increase well-being, and in Mexico and Europe, the happiest households are those of 4-5 people. Experts emphasize that happiness is based on trust, kindness, and social connections.
