Lithuania has been named the happiest country in the world for young people, according to the annual World Happiness Report released by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford. The rankings are based on Gallup World Poll data analyzed by experts, with a focus on life-satisfaction polls in each country, reflecting 'subjective well-being.'
While Lithuania secured the top spot in the under-30 rankings, it was ranked 19th overall. Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, is known for being a vibrant hub for young professionals, attracting individuals seeking career opportunities and growth.
In contrast, the United States experienced a significant drop in happiness rankings, falling from 15th place in 2023 to 23rd in 2024. The US also ranked 62nd in the under-30 category, trailing behind countries like Saudi Arabia and Guatemala.
Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, a professor and editor of the World Happiness Report, expressed surprise at the US's decline, particularly among young people. He noted that the decrease in well-being among American youth was a notable factor contributing to the country's overall ranking.
De Neve highlighted that the decline in youth happiness was not a global trend, but rather more prevalent in North America, Western Europe, and the UK. Finland, despite maintaining its top position in the overall rankings, saw a drop in happiness among its youth, slipping to seventh place in the under-30 category.
