Determining the "unhappiest country" is complex and subjective, as happiness is a multi-faceted concept influenced by various factors. There's no single definitive answer, and different surveys and studies may produce varying results.
However, the World Happiness Report, an annual publication by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network, provides a comprehensive ranking based on self-reported happiness levels across various countries.
While the report doesn't explicitly label a country as the "unhappiest," it does rank countries based on their happiness scores. According to the 2023 report, countries at the lower end of the happiness ranking include:
- Lebanon: Ranked 145th out of 156 countries, Lebanon faces significant political and economic challenges, including a severe economic crisis and ongoing political instability.
- Afghanistan: Ranked 155th, Afghanistan continues to grapple with conflict, poverty, and humanitarian crises, significantly impacting its citizens' well-being.
- Zimbabwe: Ranked 156th, Zimbabwe faces economic challenges, including high inflation and unemployment, contributing to low happiness levels.
It is important to note that these rankings are based on various factors, including GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.
The report highlights the importance of addressing these factors to improve well-being and happiness globally.
