The World Happiness Report 2026, published by the Wellbeing Research Centre of the University of Oxford, Gallup, and the United Nations, has ranked Tunisia 105th out of 147 countries. The report uses a happiness score based on the average response to the question "Cantril Ladder," where individuals rate their life on a scale of 0 to 10. Tunisia's score of 4.798/10 indicates that the average evaluation of life by Tunisians is below the midpoint of the scale.
The report identifies six key factors that explain the differences in happiness scores between countries. These factors include GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to choose life, generosity, and perceptions of corruption. For Tunisia, the relatively low score can be attributed to various factors, including economic challenges and perceptions of corruption. Neighboring countries, such as Algeria, have a higher ranking, with Algeria placing 83rd.
The concept of happiness can be defined and measured in various ways. According to Dr. Sadok Zerelli, happiness is an internal state where an individual can reflect on their life, including its joys, losses, regrets, and uncertainties, and conclude that their life is worth living. This definition encompasses several dimensions, including pleasure, love and relationships, sense of purpose, inner freedom, peace with oneself, gratitude, and hope.
The World Happiness Report 2026 uses data collected between 2023 and 2025 to determine the rankings. Finland tops the list for the sixth consecutive year, with a happiness score of 7.764/10. Other countries, such as Morocco and Egypt, rank lower than Tunisia, with Morocco placing 112th and Egypt 139th.
Dr. Sadok Zerelli shares a personal experience that illustrates his definition of happiness. During his time as a visiting scholar at MIT in Boston, he met Professor Keren Polensky, who had dedicated her life to research and publication. Despite her simple lifestyle, she found happiness in her passion for bird-watching. Her experience shows that happiness can be found in simple things and that it is a personal and subjective experience.
The happiness score is not solely based on economic factors but also on social and psychological aspects. The report highlights that the six factors used to explain differences in happiness scores are not additive, but rather serve to provide context for the evaluations given by individuals. This approach acknowledges that happiness is a complex and multifaceted concept that cannot be fully captured by a single score or ranking.
The World Happiness Report 2026 provides valuable insights into the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being across different countries. While Tunisia's ranking may not be high, it is essential to consider the various dimensions of happiness and the complexities of individual experiences. By understanding the factors that influence happiness, policymakers and individuals can work towards creating a more fulfilling and satisfying life for all.
Key points
- Tunisia ranks 105th in the World Happiness Report 2026 with a score of 4.798/10.
- The report uses six key factors to explain differences in happiness scores, including GDP per capita, social support, and perceptions of corruption.
- Happiness is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses various dimensions, including pleasure, love and relationships, and inner freedom.
