The International Day of Happiness is held every year on March 20. It is the day the world recognizes the importance of happiness in our lives.
The International Day of Happiness, which was first observed in 2013, raises awareness of happiness as a fundamental human aim and emphasises the significance of happiness and well-being as aspirations for people all over the world.
When the UN General Assembly declared March 20 to be the day to celebrate happiness in 2012, it did so for a reason. The UN demanded "a more inclusive, equitable and balanced approach to economic growth" because happiness is crucial for eradicating poverty, decreasing inequality, preserving the environment, fostering inclusivity, and achieving sustainable economic growth.
Why this day is celebrated: United Nations On March 20, this day is also celebrated to increase awareness of the importance of happiness among people around the world. The United Nations General Assembly resolved to celebrate it on 12 July 2012. The reason behind celebrating this day for the United Nations was the result of the efforts of the famous social worker Jamie Illian. His ideas inspired the Secretary-General of the United Nations, General Ban Ki-moon, and eventually 20 March 2013 was named the International Day of Happiness.
The place of 'happiness' in UN goals: In 2015, the United Nations announced 17 Sustainable Development Goals which were set to end poverty, reduce inequality and protect our planet. These three major aspects are considered very essential for a good life and happiness. It is also the effort of the United Nations that while celebrating this day, the attention of the policy makers and makers of the world should be kept on the ultimate goal like happiness.
How important is happiness: The United Nations also says that for sustainable development, poverty alleviation, and happiness in the world, economic development needs to include an attitude of equality, inclusiveness and balance. The formal initiative to value happiness was taken by a small country like Bhutan, which has been attaching more importance to the value of national happiness than its national income since the 1970s. From here onwards, more importance was given to the national gross pleasure rather than the national gross product.
Relevance and Significance of 'International Day of Happiness'