South Africa has climbed to 83rd place in the 2024 World Happiness Report, showcasing significant improvement in national well-being and happiness.
Johannesburg, South Africa (24 March 2024) – We know we have challenges – we see them everywhere – but somehow, South Africa is happier than ever. You read that correctly. We are happier than ever, against all odds!
The World Happiness Report for 2024 has just been released and we have climbed two places since last year and 23 places since 2019! We’re also in the top 5 happiest places in Africa!
Now that’s ayoba!
Since its inception over a decade ago, the World Happiness Report has provided the world with insights into the quality of life in various countries. More than just a ranking, it serves as a valuable tool for leaders to identify areas that could enhance the happiness and well-being of their citizens.
Produced through a partnership between Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and the WHR’s Editorial Board, the World Happiness Report is a comprehensive study that reflects a growing global demand for prioritising happiness and well-being in government policies. It delves into the factors contributing to personal and national happiness, offering a nuanced understanding of what makes people content.
South Africa now finds itself in the company of several emerging markets, such as Colombia (78), Indonesia (80), Bulgaria (81), and Algeria (85). This demonstrates the country’s progress in improving its population’s overall well-being.
How are the Rankings Determined?
The World Happiness Report calculates the average happiness of a country over a three-year period, comparing it to the previous period to identify trends and changes. The report takes into account several key factors:
GDP per capita
Social Support
Healthy Life Expectancy
Freedom to make Life Choices
Generosity
Perception of Corruption
Dystopia
Each of these factors contributes to the country’s overall happiness score. South Africa’s ranking at 83 reflects the positive developments in these areas, moving from last year’s position of 85 to the year before’s 91.
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This remarkable improvement is even more impressive compared to the 2019 rankings, in which South Africa languished at 106th place.
A Global Perspective
For the seventh consecutive year, Finland has secured the top spot as the happiest country in the world. The rest of the top ten includes Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Israel, the Netherlands, Norway, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and Australia. On the other end of the spectrum, Afghanistan remains at the bottom, maintaining its position as the world’s ‘unhappiest’ nation.
Interestingly, the United States has dropped out of the top 20 for the first time since the report’s inception in 2012. This decline has been attributed to a significant drop in the well-being of Americans under 30.
Celebrating South Africa’s Progress
South Africa’s improved ranking in the World Happiness Report is a cause for celebration and reflects the efforts of its people in enhancing the quality of life and well-being of the nation. While challenges remain, the upward trajectory in happiness and life satisfaction is a positive sign of progress.
South Africa’s progress is a shining example of resilience, optimism, and the human spirit’s ability to thrive against all odds. So, let’s celebrate this achievement and continue working towards a happier, more prosperous future for Mzansi!
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