March 20th: International Day of Happiness

Tags: Important Days

International Day of Happiness, observed annually on 20 March, focuses on promoting global happiness and well-being.

An Overview of the News

• The theme of the International Day of Happiness in 2024 is "Reconnecting for Happiness: Building Resilient Communities," encouraging participation by all to celebrate happiness.

History of International Day of Happiness

• Based on a proposal from Bhutan, the United Nations (UN) declared 20 March as the International Day of Happiness in 2012.

• Bhutan's advocacy of prioritizing national happiness over national income dates back to the early 1970s, emphasizing the importance of gross national happiness.

• Bhutan convened an important high-level meeting on “Happiness and Well-being: Defining a New Economic Paradigm” during the 66th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

• The first International Day of Happiness was celebrated in 2013, which has been an annual tradition ever since.

Importance of International Happiness Day

• The day reminds of happiness as a universal right, which aims to spread happiness and positivity among individuals.

• It offers everyone an opportunity to contribute to happiness by initiating small acts of kindness and promoting well-being.

• The United Nations General Assembly advocates an economic development approach that prioritizes inclusivity, equity and balance, aiming to enhance the happiness and well-being of all individuals.