Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Every March 20th, the world commemorates International Happiness Day.
This global event is organized by the United Nations (UN) as an important reminder that happiness is a fundamental human right worth celebrating.
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This observance emphasizes the relevance of happiness and well-being as universal goals in human life worldwide.
International Happiness Day serves as a moment of reflection for individuals, communities, and governments to recognize and promote happiness.
It is a day to unite around the universal human aspiration for a better life, where well-being is not merely an emotion but also the foundation for sustainable development.
History and Purpose of International Happiness Day
The idea for International Happiness Day was first initiated by Bhutan, a country that since the early 1970s has adopted the concept of Gross National Happiness over Gross National Product, as reported by UN official site.
Bhutan believes that national happiness is more important than national income, a philosophy that has become a global inspiration.
In 2011, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution recognizing happiness as a fundamental human goal, calling for a more inclusive and balanced approach to economic development.
Then, on July 12, 2012, the UN General Assembly officially designated March 20 as International Happiness Day through resolution 66/281.
The first International Happiness Day celebration was held on March 20, 2013.
One of the primary goals of International Happiness Day is to raise global awareness of the importance of happiness in every individual's life.
The United Nations explicitly recognizes happiness as a fundamental human goal and advocates a more inclusive, equitable, and balanced approach to economic development to promote happiness and well-being.
The day also highlights the close link between human well-being and the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include efforts to end poverty, reduce inequality, and protect the environment, directly contribute to improving happiness and quality of life.
International Happiness Day 2026: Social Media & Happiness
For 2026, the theme for International Happiness Day is "SOCIAL MEDIA & HAPPINESS."
This theme is designed to explore the complex relationship between social media use and individual levels of happiness.
The focus is on highlighting the potential challenges that social media may pose to mental well-being, while also exploring positive ways to harness this technology for good.
In line with this theme, the World Happiness Report 2026, to be released on March 19, 2026, will also specifically address the relationship between social media and happiness.
The report will present the latest global data and expert analysis to understand how social media influences happiness trends around the world.
World Happiness Report and How to Celebrate
Every year, coinciding with International Happiness Day, the World Happiness Report is published.
This report is a leading publication that ranks countries based on the average happiness level of their population, using survey data from more than 150 countries.
Factors measured in the report include GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.
The UN invites everyone, of all ages and backgrounds, as well as every business and government, to participate in the celebration of International Happiness Day.
There are many simple ways to celebrate, such as performing random acts of kindness, exercising to improve physical and mental health, or simply smiling to improve your mood.
Furthermore, thinking positively and appreciating what you have, interacting with those closest to you, and spreading positive messages are also effective ways to celebrate this day.