Ubuntu philosophy is changing how the world measures happiness

FINLAND, for the eighth year in a row, remains the happiest country in the world, while Afghanistan remains the unhappiest country according to the World Happiness Report 2025.

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The World Happiness Report (WHR) emphasises the importance of social connections and kindness in driving happiness. Africa's Ubuntu philosophy, which highlights communal well-being and interconnectedness, offers invaluable lessons to Western societies grappling with rising loneliness and political polarisation.

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) became the first African institution to host the launch of the WHR on World Happiness Day last week. The event marked the WHR’s 13th edition.

The findings are powered by Gallup World Poll data and other sources, including the Lloyd’s Register Foundation World Risk Poll, and analysed by leading experts in well-being science.