World Happiness Report 2026: Finland and Afghanistan maintain top and bottom positions respectively; India improves ranking - check full list
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Health policy & public health· Prelims·
Why in news
The Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford published the World Happiness Report 2026, showing India's ranking improved by two spots.
Background
Finland maintained the top position for the ninth consecutive year, while Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, and Malawi ranked among the least happy countries. The report identified heavy social media use and algorithm-driven platforms as key factors negatively affecting the mental health of teenagers in Western Europe and English-speaking countries.
Facts for Prelims
- Report / IndexWorld Happiness Report 2026 published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford
- FactFinland ranked as the happiest country for the ninth consecutive year
- FactIndia improved its ranking by two spots in the 2026 report
- FactCosta Rica climbed to fourth place due to strong family bonds and social connections
For Mains
Q. Discuss how digital platform architectures and social media consumption patterns are reshaping mental health outcomes and life satisfaction among adolescents in developed economies.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Algorithmic bias: Influence of influencer-centric platform designs on adolescent psychological well-being
- Social capital erosion: Impact of digital connectivity on traditional family bonds and community social connections
Keywords: Life satisfaction · Well-being · Algorithmic influence · Mental health · Social capital
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