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United Nations International Day of Happiness

08 Mar 2013 | Action for Happiness

A profound shift in attitudes is underway all over the world. People are now recognising that 'progress' should be about increasing human happiness and wellbeing, not just growing the economy at all costs. That's why all 193 United Nations member states have adopted a resolution calling for happiness to be given greater priority and March 20 has been declared as the International Day of Happiness - a day to inspire action for a happier world.

Day of Happiness

To celebrate the first International Day of Happiness, Action for Happiness is working in partnership with Cheers and a network of amazing, like-minded organisations who share our vision for a flourishing world. We have created a Day of Happiness online platform and our focus for the day is encouraging people to bring more happiness to others.

Creating a happier society requires action at all levels - not just from political leaders and institutions but also from us as individual citizens. When we do things to bring happiness to others, everyone benefits. It helps the people we connect with, boosts our own well-being and also inspires others to be more caring and positive too.

Encouraging everyone to ACT

We want the Day of Happiness to be a global celebration of acts of generosity, kindness, enthusiasm and connection - focused on bringing happiness to others. So we're encouraging everyone to ACT, by which we mean:

  • A: Affirm the pledge - make a personal pledge to try to create more happiness in the world
  • C: Cheer Happy Heroes - celebrate the people who bring happiness to you and others
  • T: Take part - do something to mark the day and spread some happiness

About the Day of Happiness

In July 2012, the United Nations General Assembly adopted  Resolution 66/281  which decreed that the International Day of Happiness would be observed every year on 20 March. Each year, on this date, a universal phenomenon occurs. The sun is on the same plane as the earthʼs equator so that day and night are of equal length, creating balance in the earthʼs celestial coordinate systems.

The creation of the International Day of Happiness followed on from the first ever United Nations  conference on Happiness and Wellbeing and an earlier  UN resolution  calling for member states to place a greater focus on the happiness of their citizens.

Support the day

Wherever you are in the world you can take part on the International Day of Happiness by:

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"We urgently need a change in priorities. So if you believe in a more caring society that puts well-being before wealth, and prioritises the things that really matter, then join us - add your voice and take action. Together we can create a happier and kinder world".

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Mark Williamson
Director, Action for Happiness

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