Global access to safe water and sanitation remains a critical issue
More than a quarter of the world’s population lacks access to safe drinking water. The United Nations confirms this alarming gap, highlighting how essential clean water is for health, development, and dignity. In addition, nearly half of the planet’s people do not have access to basic cleaning services, a barrier that affects families, communities, and entire regions. The ongoing demand for water has climbed consistently, with consumption rising about 1% each year over the past four decades, a trend expected to continue into the future.
Within this broader context, it is important to note how governments and organizations measure well-being. The World Happiness Report, produced for the United Nations by a team of independent researchers, ranks nations based on factors that influence daily life. Finland has held a leading position in these rankings for the sixth consecutive year, reflecting a combination of strong social structures and public policies.
Analysts examining the report focus on six core components that influence national happiness and resilience: the level of income and economic security, overall health, reliable social support networks, personal freedom, generosity, and the absence of corruption in institutions. These elements together shape not only how people feel day to day but also how societies perform under stress and uncertainty.
In the 2023 edition of the World Happiness Report, Finland stands well ahead of other prominent candidates. The country is recognized alongside other northern European nations such as Denmark and Iceland, as well as Israel and the Netherlands, as leaders in long-term well-being. The consistently high scores reflect sustained investment in health care, education, social protection, and transparent governance. This combination provides a benchmark for policymakers across North America and beyond, illustrating the potential benefits of cohesive public systems, trusted institutions, and social cohesion for quality of life.
For readers in Canada and the United States, these findings underscore a shared interest in policies that strengthen water security, sanitation access, and social welfare. While the water crisis remains a global challenge, the pursuit of reliable public services and robust governance can help close gaps and improve daily living, even in rapidly growing urban environments. The World Happiness Report thus serves not only as a reflection on well-being but also as a call to action for governments, communities, and citizens to prioritize health, equity, and governance as they plan for the future.