Happiness is right of every individual in this world and it is worth celebrating and dedicating such a day to build happiness amongst ourselves. 20th March was proclaimed as International Day of Happiness by UNESCO realising the significance of happiness and well being as universal goals in the lives of people. Another reason to celebrate this day was to understand the importance of happiness in setting public policies for people.
The international community determined some issues faced by majority of people around the globe which needs to be addressed as a priority for the well-being and happiness of the people. Three factors were identified as a hindrance to happiness which were poverty, inequality, and global warming/pollution. The United Nations launched its famous 17 Sustainable Development Goals that would help in reducing poverty, inequality and protecting our planet. The global community aspires to achieve these goals by 2030. According to United Nations, collective happiness will emerge if these issues are addressed internationally.
It also recognised the need for a more comprehensive, impartial and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes sustainable development, poverty eradication, happiness and the well-being of all people. People of any age, institution, business or government can join in the celebration of International Happiness Day.
Bhutan was one of the countries which recognised the value of happiness over national income since 1970 and adopted the goal of Gross National Happiness over Gross National Product. Bhutan also held a meeting during the sixty sixth session of general assembly with an aim to make happiness and well being as the new economic paradigm.
Every year on the International Day of Happiness a theme is introduced and the theme for the year 2022 focuses upon three basic aspects to attain happiness. The three basic aspects of the theme in 2022 is to keep calm in every situation to attain happiness, to stay wise in every difficult circumstance to overcome it, to be kind to others and help them when in need. Let us all come together on this occasion and celebrate the freedom of happiness without violating the rights of others.
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