What observers say
“The average happiness score for Canadians has been declining recently, more so than in almost all other countries,” stated Christopher Barrington-Leigh, a key researcher involved in the World Happiness Report 2026. This stark observation encapsulates the troubling trends revealed in the latest report, which was released on March 19, 2026.
For the ninth consecutive year, Finland has been celebrated as the happiest country in the world, a testament to its effective social policies and community support systems. In stark contrast, Canada has fallen to 25th place, a significant drop from its previous ranking of 5th in 2015. This decline reflects a broader trend of diminishing happiness among youth in Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand over the past decade.
The report, based on responses from approximately 100,000 people across 140 countries, highlights a concerning decrease in happiness among young Canadians. Barrington-Leigh noted, “Those who use social media more are less happy,” suggesting that the pervasive influence of social media may be contributing to this decline. The report indicates that intensive social media use correlates with a decrease in well-being, particularly among younger demographics.
In Canada, the average happiness score has been declining, with youth experiencing a drop of 1.138 points since 2011. This trend is alarming, as young Canadians are among the three countries with the most significant decrease in happiness. The report emphasizes the importance of social connections and community quality in overall well-being, which may be deteriorating in the face of increased digital interactions.
Interestingly, Costa Rica has made a remarkable leap in the rankings, entering the top five at 4th place, up from 23rd in 2023. This shift underscores the varying factors that contribute to happiness across different nations. Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, another contributor to the report, remarked, “We think this is due to the quality of their social life and the stability they currently enjoy,” indicating that community and social support are crucial for happiness.
As the report highlights, the happiness index for Quebec stands at 7.255 out of 10, ranking it 5th, tied with Sweden. However, the overall happiness index for Canada, including Quebec, is only 6.589 out of 10, reflecting the broader national decline. The findings suggest that while some regions may still maintain a semblance of happiness, the overall trend is troubling.
At the bottom of the rankings, Afghanistan remains the unhappiest country in the world, a stark reminder of the global disparities in happiness and well-being. The report calls for a reevaluation of social policies and community initiatives to address these issues, particularly for vulnerable populations such as youth.
As we look ahead, the implications of the World Happiness Report 2026 will likely prompt discussions among policymakers and community leaders about how to foster a more supportive environment for young people. The need for effective strategies to combat the negative impacts of social media and to enhance social connections is more pressing than ever.
