Denmark has been ranked as the happiest country in the world. This ranking is based on a multitude of factors ranging from healthcare to riding a bike. According to a Huffington Post article, Denmark ranks as the leader of the happiest countries for six key reasons. Here is a list:

1. Denmark supports parents: Parents are given a combined total of 52 weeks of leave after a child is born. Comparatively, the U.S. offers only 10 weeks on average to American parents. Child care is also much cheaper and more easily accessed by all parents in Denmark.
2. Health care is a right: Another difference between Denmark and Americans is their attention to healthcare. Danish citizens will see their primary physician on average seven times a year. Danish citizens see only one doctor. Healthcare is not only a right in Denmark, but it is a continuous, dependable right.
3. Biking: More than half of commutes are via biking in Denmark. This statistic contributes to a more fit country, a country with a longer life expectancy and also a wealthier country.
4. Gender equality: Women contribute six to 10 percent more to household incomes in Denmark than in the U.S. In fact they have had female prime ministers and were one of the first countries to allow women to vote.
5. Culture: Hygge is utilized in this chilly environment. It is a tactic to fight the cold weather of Denmark and to create a cozy, united environment.
6. Volunteerism: Social responsibility is valued in Danish culture. Over 40 percent of citizens volunteer.

According to DailyFinance, Denmark ranks as the happiest country in the world for more black and white reasons as well. For example, the country has one of the lowest percentages of long workdays and a life expectancy of almost 80 years old.

Denmark’s happiness sheds light on the positive effects a stable economy can have on the overall wellbeing of a country’s citizens.

– Kathleen Lee

Sources: Huffington Post, Daily Finance
Photo: Flickr