Pakistan improves happiness ranking amidst challenges

Pakistani cricket fans are finding reasons to celebrate amidst challenging times. On March 23, which is Pakistan Day, a report revealed that Pakistan is considered a happier country compared to some of its neighbors in South Asia. According to the World Happiness Report 2025, Pakistan ranks 109 out of 147 countries. This may not seem impressive, but it is important to note that India, which ranks 118, is nine spots behind Pakistan. Despite economic challenges and a complex identity, many Pakistanis reported higher levels of happiness than their Indian counterparts. Nepal is also ahead in this ranking at 92. Sri Lanka comes in at 133, and Bangladesh is just below them at 134. This suggests that happiness does not always align with economic progress or development. The report, prepared by the Wellbeing Research Centre of Oxford University and Gallup, measures happiness based on self-evaluations of life satisfaction from 2022 to 2024. Globally, Finland remains the happiest country for the eighth consecutive year. Nordic countries often top these rankings, emphasizing that social connections are essential for happiness. John Clifton of Gallup noted that true happiness comes from trust and community, not just wealth. In contrast, the United States fell to its lowest position at 24 due to a rising trend of solitary dining, which American media highlighted as a sign of unhappiness. While questioning why Pakistan fares better than India and Bangladesh, the report suggests that strong family ties and charitable traditions might contribute to the perceived happiness in the country. For example, the custom of sharing meals, particularly during Ramadan, exemplifies this spirit of generosity. However, the happiness report also comes amid serious issues in Pakistan, such as rising terrorism and political instability. Leaders are calling for unity to combat these challenges. Despite these pressing issues, the happiness report serves as a small ray of hope and a momentary distraction for Pakistanis.