The 2026 World Happiness Report shows that people who spend more time on social media tend to be less happy with their lives.
Published every year to mark the International Day of Happiness on March 20, the report ranks countries based on how citizens rate their well-being and life satisfaction.
Nordic countries still dominate the top spots. But the 2026 report also raises concerns about young people’s happiness, especially in English-speaking nations, linking lower satisfaction to heavy social media use.
Life satisfaction for people under 25, particularly in English-speaking and Western European countries, has dropped sharply over the last ten years, the report says.
It adds that heavy social media use is hurting young people’s personal well-being across the world.
The study surveyed about 100,000 people in 140 countries and found that under-25s in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are much less satisfied with life compared to a decade ago.
The report revealed that most US college students wish social media platforms did not exist.
“They use them because others are using them, but they would prefer it if no one did,” the report said.
These findings come at a time when governments around the world are thinking about limiting social media use for minors.
The annual World Happiness Report is published by the University of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Centre, in partnership with Gallup and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
Rankings are based on three-year averages and look at factors like GDP per capita, social support, life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and how people see corruption.
In 2026, Finland was named the happiest country in the world, followed by its Nordic neighbors Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.
The report notes that heavy social media use is linked to lower well-being, though using it moderately may not have the same effect.
Costa Rica joined the top five for the first time, showing a shift in the usual rankings.
However, the report clarifies that rankings are based on the Gallup World Poll’s three-year average of life evaluations (Cantril Ladder) across more than 140 countries.
While the top positions remain mostly unchanged, the report highlights big changes in well-being within regions, with some Central European countries seeing higher satisfaction and other areas experiencing drops.
In Africa, Mauritius tops the list. It ranks 73rd globally, benefiting from strong social support, good life expectancy, and economic stability.
Mauritius combines a strong tourism sector with a growing finance industry, giving residents opportunities and a high quality of life.
Libya comes next in Africa, ranking 81st worldwide, showing strong happiness despite years of political turmoil.
Residents rely on social support and enjoy freedom in making life choices. GDP per capita varies, but community networks and generosity help make up for economic uncertainties.
Algeria ranks 83rd globally, reflecting strong family ties and social cohesion. Though economic growth is uneven, citizens benefit from social services and healthcare that support longer life expectancy.
Mozambique is also among Africa’s top 10, ranking 93rd globally. Its resilient communities and rich cultural traditions help people cope with economic and environmental challenges, while life expectancy continues to improve.
Other African countries in the top 10 include Gabon, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Niger, and Tunisia.
Tunisia ranks 105th globally, balancing economic challenges and political change while keeping strong social support networks. Life expectancy is high, and healthcare access remains a priority.
Nigeria ranks 106th, slipping from 105 in 2025 and 102 in 2024, according to the report.
The UN notes that International Day of Happiness is a time to celebrate joy, emphasizing that happiness is a key goal for every human being.
