Finland crowned world's happiest nation for fifth year

13 Sept 13:39 Key points summarised by AI

Finland secured its title as the world's happiest nation for the fifth consecutive year in the annual UN-sponsored World Happiness Report.
The report, compiled before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, identifies Afghanistan as the unhappiest country, closely followed by Lebanon, highlighting the severe impact of conflict and economic meltdown.
Northern European countries consistently dominated the top ranks, with Denmark, Iceland, Switzerland, and the Netherlands following Finland; the U.S. rose to 16th, and France achieved its highest ranking at 20th.
Happiness scores are determined by factors such as GDP, social support, personal freedom, and low levels of corruption, with Finns attributing their wellbeing to good governance, beautiful nature, and well-functioning public services.
Authors of the report emphasize that social support, generosity, and honesty in government are crucial for overall wellbeing, urging world leaders to heed these findings.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

Yesterday 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.