International Day of Happiness In United Nations 2024

Explore the universal celebration of happiness on International Day of Happiness in the United Nations. From inspiring stories to global initiatives, let’s unite in joy and positivity!

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QUICK FACTS

• Date: March 20th
• Main Components: Happiness, well-being, sustainable development, public policy
• Popularity: Celebrated by millions of people in over 160 countries
• Pairings: Happiness action calendars, smiley campaign, world happiness contest, fantastic fungi, sing for happiness
• Variations: World Happiness Week, World Happiness Report, World Happiness Foundation, World Happiness Fest, Happiness Path, Happytalism

Introduction

Happiness is a fundamental human goal and a universal aspiration in the lives of all people. The United Nations (UN) recognizes this goal and the importance of happiness and well-being as public policy objectives. The UN also calls for a more inclusive, equitable, and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes sustainable development, poverty eradication, happiness, and the well-being of all peoples.

To celebrate and promote this vision, the UN has designated March 20 as the International Day of Happiness, a global observance that aims to spread awareness, action, and solidarity for happiness and well-being. The International Day of Happiness was first proposed by Bhutan, a country that measures Gross National Happiness instead of Gross National Product, and was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2012. The first celebration was held in 2013, with the theme “Happiness and Well-Being: Defining a New Economic Paradigm”.

Since then, the International Day of Happiness has become a worldwide phenomenon, involving various activities, events, and campaigns organized by the UN, governments, civil society, and individuals. The International Day of Happiness also serves as an opportunity to advocate for happiness and well-being as a priority for public policy and social change, and to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the happiness paradigm. The International Day of Happiness invites each person of any age, plus every classroom, business, and government to join in the celebration and to make happiness a choice for themselves and others.

In this article, we will explore the background, history, celebration, and advocacy of the International Day of Happiness in the UN, and how it can inspire us to create a happier and more sustainable world for all.

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Background

The idea of the International Day of Happiness originated from Bhutan, a small Himalayan kingdom that has been pursuing happiness as a national policy since the early 1970s. Bhutan’s concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) is based on four pillars: sustainable and equitable socio-economic development, environmental conservation, preservation and promotion of culture, and good governance. GNH is measured by a set of indicators that cover various aspects of well-being, such as health, education, living standards, psychological well-being, community vitality, ecological diversity, time use, and cultural resilience.

Bhutan’s unique approach to development attracted the attention of the UN and the world, and inspired a global dialogue on happiness and well-being as alternative measures of progress. In 2011, Bhutan initiated a resolution at the UN General Assembly to adopt happiness as a holistic approach to development, and to convene a high-level meeting on the topic. The resolution was co-sponsored by 68 countries and adopted by consensus.

The high-level meeting, titled “Happiness and Well-Being: Defining a New Economic Paradigm”, was held on April 2, 2012, at the UN headquarters in New York. The meeting brought together heads of state and government, ministers, experts, civil society representatives, and UN officials to discuss the need for a new economic paradigm that integrates happiness and well-being into the development agenda. The meeting also featured a keynote address by Ban Ki-moon, the former Secretary-General of the UN, who expressed his support for the happiness initiative and urged the world to move beyond GDP and materialism to a more human-centered and balanced development.

Following the high-level meeting, Bhutan proposed another resolution at the UN General Assembly to declare March 20 as the International Day of Happiness, recognizing the relevance of happiness and well-being as universal goals and aspirations in the lives of human beings around the world and the importance of their recognition in public policy objectives. The resolution also recognized the need for a more inclusive, equitable, and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes sustainable development, poverty eradication, happiness, and the well-being of all peoples. The resolution was adopted by consensus on June 28, 2012, with the support of 193 member states.

The first International Day of Happiness was celebrated on March 20, 2013, with the theme “Happiness and Well-Being: Defining a New Economic Paradigm”, echoing the high-level meeting. The celebration was marked by various events and activities at the UN and around the world, such as panel discussions, musical performances, film screenings, art exhibitions, and happiness flash mobs. The celebration also coincided with the release of the first World Happiness Report, an annual publication that ranks countries by their happiness levels, based on various indicators such as life expectancy, social support, freedom, generosity, and corruption.

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History

The concept of happiness as a human right and a human goal has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times and spanning different cultures, religions, and philosophies. Some of the historical milestones and influences that shaped the modern understanding of happiness are:

• The ancient Greek philosophers, such as Aristotle, Plato, and Socrates, who explored the nature and meaning of happiness (eudaimonia) and its relation to virtue, wisdom, and the good life.
• The major world religions, such as Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism, who taught the importance of happiness as a spiritual state of mind and a divine gift, and the ways to achieve it through faith, ethics, and compassion.
• The Enlightenment thinkers, such as John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Thomas Jefferson, who asserted the natural right of all people to pursue happiness and to be free from tyranny and oppression.
• The utilitarian philosophers, such as Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, who proposed the principle of maximizing happiness for the greatest number of people as the basis of morality and public policy.
• The positive psychologists, such as Martin Seligman, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, and Ed Diener, who studied the science and practice of happiness and well-being, and identified the factors and interventions that enhance them.
• The happiness economists, such as Richard Easterlin, Richard Layard, and Jeffrey Sachs, who challenged the conventional measures of economic progress and advocated for alternative indicators that capture the quality of life and human development.

The history of happiness also reflects the diversity and complexity of the concept, as different cultures and societies have different definitions, expressions, and sources of happiness. For example, some cultures emphasize happiness as a collective and relational phenomenon, while others stress happiness as an individual and personal achievement. Some cultures value happiness as a stable and enduring state, while others appreciate happiness as a dynamic and fluctuating experience. Some cultures associate happiness with material prosperity and security, while others link happiness with spiritual growth and transcendence.

The International Day of Happiness acknowledges and celebrates the diversity and complexity of happiness, and encourages people to explore and share their own perspectives and experiences of happiness. The International Day of Happiness also recognizes the commonalities and interconnections of happiness, and invites people to join the global community of happiness seekers and makers.

Celebration

The International Day of Happiness is a global celebration that aims to spread awareness, action, and solidarity for happiness and well-being. The celebration involves various activities, events, and campaigns organized by the UN, governments, civil society, and individuals around the world. Some of the examples of celebration are:

• Happiness action calendars: These are online tools that provide daily action ideas for happiness, such as expressing gratitude, doing kind deeds, choosing positive emotions, and practicing breathing. The happiness action calendars are based on the latest research and evidence on what works for happiness and well-being, and are designed to help people create positive habits and routines. The happiness action calendars are available in different languages and themes, and can be accessed through the websites of Action for Happiness, the World Happiness Foundation, and the International Day of Happiness .
• Smiley for the International Day of Happiness: This is a social media campaign that encourages people to share their smiles and happiness stories using the hashtag #HAPPYDAY. The campaign was launched in 2013 by the UN Foundation and Pharrell Williams, the singer of the hit song “Happy”. The campaign also invites people to donate to the UN humanitarian causes, such as education, health, and peace. The campaign has reached millions of people and generated thousands of smiles and stories from around the world.
• World Happiness Contest: This is a film screening event that showcases short films that inspire happiness, joy, and love. The event was initiated in 2014 by the World Happiness Academy, a non-profit organization that promotes happiness education and research. The event invites filmmakers and storytellers from different countries and backgrounds to submit their films that reflect their vision and expression of happiness. The films are then judged by a panel of experts and the public, and the winners are announced and awarded on the International Day of Happiness. The event also features guest speakers, live performances, and interactive workshops.
• Fantastic Fungi: This is a documentary film that explores the amazing world of mushrooms and their role in nature, health, and happiness. The film was released in 2019 by Louie Schwartzberg, a renowned filmmaker and visual artist. The film features stunning time-lapse photography and interviews with experts and enthusiasts, such as Paul Stamets, Michael Pollan, and Andrew Weil. The film reveals the secrets and wonders of the fungal kingdom, and
  • how it demonstrates the potential and benefits of mushrooms for human and planetary health and happiness. The film also invites people to join the global movement of fantastic fungi and to become part of the solution for a happier and more sustainable world.
  • Sing for Happiness: This is a song session event that invites people to sing along to popular songs that celebrate happiness, such as “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, “Don’t Worry Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin, and “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles. The event was started in 2015 by the World Singing Day, a non-profit organization that promotes singing as a way to connect, create, and celebrate. The event aims to bring people together through the universal language of music and to spread happiness and harmony across the world.

  These are just some of the examples of how people celebrate the International Day of Happiness in the UN and around the world. There are many more ways to join the celebration and to make happiness a choice for yourself and others. You can find more information and resources on the official websites of the International Day of Happiness and the UN .

  Advocacy

  The International Day of Happiness is also an opportunity to advocate for happiness and well-being as a priority for public policy and social change. The advocacy involves various issues, aspects, and areas that affect happiness and well-being, such as poverty, inequality, environment, health, education, democracy, peace, and human rights.

  The advocacy also involves various initiatives, movements, and organizations that promote happiness and well-being as a new economic and social system, and that advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the happiness paradigm. Some of the examples of advocacy are:

  • Happiness path: This is a mission that aims to create a happier and more sustainable world by advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the happiness paradigm. The mission was initiated by Jayme Illien, the founder and CEO of Illien Global and the UN adviser who proposed the International Day of Happiness. The mission invites people to join the happiness path and to take action for happiness and well-being in their personal, professional, and social lives. The mission also provides a platform and a network for happiness leaders and changemakers to collaborate and innovate for a happier world.
  • Happytalism: This is a movement that aims to redefine the economic and social system based on happiness, well-being, and the four bottom lines: people, planet, purpose, and parity. The movement was founded by Luis Gallardo, the founder and president of the World Happiness Foundation and the World Happiness Fest. The movement challenges the current system of capitalism and consumerism that prioritizes profit and growth over human and planetary well-being. The movement proposes a new system of happytalism that values happiness and well-being as the ultimate goals and outcomes of development, and that aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the happiness paradigm.
  • World Happiness Foundation: This is a non-governmental organization that aims to empower individuals and communities to co-create a happier world through education, research, and action. The organization was founded by Luis Gallardo in 2010, and is supported by a global network of happiness experts, leaders, and activists. The organization offers various programs and projects, such as the World Happiness Report, the World Happiness Week, the World Happiness Awards, the World Happiness Academy, and the World Happiness Learning. The organization also partners with other organizations and institutions, such as the UN, the OECD, and the World Bank, to influence and shape the global agenda on happiness and well-being.
  • World Happiness Fest: This is a community event that aims to celebrate and amplify the voices and visions of happiness leaders and changemakers from different countries, cultures, and sectors. The event was founded by Luis Gallardo in 2017, and is organized by the World Happiness Foundation and the World Happiness Fest. The event features various activities and formats, such as talks, workshops, panels, concerts, art, and meditation. The event also connects and inspires people to join the global movement of happiness and well-being, and to become part of the solution for a happier and more sustainable world.

  These are just some of the examples of how people advocate for happiness and well-being in the UN and around the world. There are many more ways to join the advocacy and to make happiness and well-being a priority for public policy and social change. You can find more information and resources on the official websites of the Happiness Path , the Happytalism , the World Happiness Foundation , and the World Happiness Fest .

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF HAPPINESS IN UNITED NATIONS WISHES, QUOTES, AND MESSAGES

TOP 20 INTERNATIONAL DAY OF HAPPINESS IN UNITED NATIONS WISHES AND GREETINGS

Here are 20 unique International Day of Happiness wishes and greetings for United Nations:

1. “On this International Day of Happiness, may your heart be as light as a feather and your days filled with joy and laughter!”
2. “Wishing you a day filled with smiles, laughter, and all the things that make your heart happy. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
3. “May the sun always shine on the path of your happiness. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
4. “Sending you waves of positivity and happiness on this special day. May your joy be contagious! Happy International Day of Happiness!”
5. “Embrace the joy within, and let it radiate to everyone around you. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
6. “May your day be sprinkled with moments that make your heart dance with joy. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
7. “Here’s to a day of laughter, love, and all the simple joys that make life beautiful. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
8. “On this day of happiness, may your heart be light, your mind be at peace, and your spirit be free. Cheers to a joyous life!”
9. “May your life be a canvas painted with the vibrant colors of happiness. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
10. “Wishing you a day filled with positive vibes, warm smiles, and the happiness that lasts a lifetime. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
11. “Let every moment be a reminder that happiness is a journey, not a destination. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
12. “May the melody of happiness play in your heart today and every day. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
13. “Celebrate the little joys, cherish the beautiful moments, and spread happiness wherever you go. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
14. “Sending you a basket full of happiness, sprinkled with love and wrapped in joy. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
15. “May your day be as bright and beautiful as the smile on your face. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
16. “Cheers to a day filled with laughter, love, and the pursuit of everything that brings you happiness. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
17. “May your heart be a garden of happiness, blooming with positivity and joy. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
18. “Wishing you a day where your happiness quotient reaches new heights. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
19. “May your day be a mosaic of happiness, with each piece contributing to the masterpiece of your life. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
20. “Here’s to celebrating the art of being happy – today and every day. Happy International Day of Happiness!”

TOP 20 INTERNATIONAL DAY OF HAPPINESS IN UNITED NATIONS QUOTES

Here are 20 unique International Day of Happiness quotes for United Nations:

1. “Happiness is the universal language that transcends borders and connects hearts. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
2. “On this special day, let’s remember that happiness is not a destination but a journey we create. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
3. “In the tapestry of life, let happiness be the vibrant thread that weaves through every moment. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
4. “Today, let’s unite in the pursuit of joy and make the world a happier place for all. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
5. “Happiness is a shared experience that knows no boundaries. Let’s spread it far and wide. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
6. “May the quest for happiness be a global endeavor, with kindness and joy as our guiding lights. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
7. “The true measure of a nation’s prosperity is the happiness of its people. Happy International Day of Happiness to all nations!”
8. “Let happiness be the common ground on which we build a world filled with compassion and understanding. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
9. “In the symphony of life, may happiness be the melody that resonates in every heart. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
10. “As we celebrate this day, let’s remember that the pursuit of happiness is a shared journey that unites us all. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
11. “Happiness is the bridge that connects diverse cultures, fostering understanding and harmony. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
12. “On this global day of joy, let’s cultivate happiness within ourselves and inspire others to do the same. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
13. “In a world of differences, let happiness be the common language that brings us all together. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
14. “May the celebration of happiness be a reminder that our collective well-being is the cornerstone of a better world. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
15. “Happiness knows no borders, and on this day, let’s celebrate the power it has to unite humanity. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
16. “A happy world is a peaceful world. Let’s strive for both, hand in hand. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
17. “In the spirit of unity, let’s sow seeds of happiness that bloom into a garden of global joy. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
18. “Happiness is a gift we give to ourselves and share with the world. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
19. “May the pursuit of happiness be a collective journey that strengthens the bonds of our global community. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
20. “On this day, let’s pledge to make happiness a priority, not just for ourselves but for the entire world. Happy International Day of Happiness!”

TOP 20 INTERNATIONAL DAY OF HAPPINESS IN UNITED NATIONS MESSAGES/SMS

Here are 20 unique International Day of Happiness messages for United Nations:

1. “Happy International Day of Happiness! Today, let’s choose joy over sorrow, kindness over indifference, and love over hate. Spread happiness like confetti!”
2. “On this global celebration of joy, may your heart be light, your spirits high, and your smiles contagious. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
3. “Wishing you a day filled with laughter, positive vibes, and moments that warm your heart. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
4. “Let’s join hands across borders and cultures to make the world a happier place. Happy International Day of Happiness! Together, we can create a brighter future.”
5. “May the happiness you spread today come back to you in abundance. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
6. “Cheers to a world where every soul finds the happiness it deserves. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
7. “In the tapestry of life, may joy be the thread that weaves us all together. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
8. “On this special day, let’s share a smile, lend a helping hand, and make the world a little brighter. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
9. “Sending you a virtual hug and wishes for a day filled with all the things that bring you happiness. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
10. “May the laughter of today echo in your heart for a lifetime. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
11. “On this global celebration, let’s make a promise to prioritize our well-being and spread happiness wherever we go. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
12. “Today, let’s celebrate the beauty of diversity and the common thread that binds us all—happiness. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
13. “Wishing you a day as bright and cheerful as your smile. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
14. “In a world that sometimes feels divided, let’s come together in the spirit of happiness and unity. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
15. “May your day be filled with positive energy, uplifting moments, and the warmth of shared joy. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
16. “Celebrate the power of happiness to transform lives and communities. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
17. “May the happiness you share today create a ripple effect that touches hearts around the world. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
18. “On this joyous occasion, let’s reflect on the simple pleasures that make life beautiful. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
19. “Wishing you a day where every step you take is a dance and every word you speak is a song. Happy International Day of Happiness!”
20. “Here’s to a world where kindness prevails, smiles are abundant, and happiness knows no boundaries. Happy International Day of Happiness!”

Conclusion

The International Day of Happiness is a global observance that celebrates and promotes happiness and well-being as universal goals and aspirations in the lives of human beings around the world. The International Day of Happiness was initiated by Bhutan and adopted by the UN in 2012, and has since become a worldwide phenomenon, involving various activities, events, and campaigns. The International Day of Happiness also serves as an opportunity to advocate for happiness and well-being as a priority for public policy and social change, and to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the happiness paradigm.

The International Day of Happiness invites each person of any age, plus every classroom, business, and government to join in the celebration and to make happiness a choice for themselves and others. The International Day of Happiness also invites each person to join the global community of happiness seekers and makers, and to contribute to the creation of a happier and more sustainable world for all.

The International Day of Happiness is celebrated every year on March 20, the day of the spring equinox, when the day and night are of equal length, symbolizing the balance and harmony of happiness and well-being. The International Day of Happiness is also celebrated every day, as happiness and well-being are not only a destination, but also a journey, a process, and a practice.

So, what are you waiting for? Join the celebration and the advocacy of the International Day of Happiness in the UN and around the world, and make happiness and well-being your choice and your priority. Remember, happiness is not something ready-made, it is something that you create. And you can create it today, and every day, for yourself and others. Happy International Day of Happiness!