Dubai, UAE; February 12, 2014

A trustworthy government, backed by active citizenship, is central to achieving the happiness of nations, according to the author of the World Happiness Report.

Addressing a plenary session on 'Citizen Happiness: The Formula for Government Success,' Dr. Jeffrey Sachs, Director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University, said the success of the UAE, which is ranked first in the Arab world and 14th globally in the World Happiness Report, is a "great achievement."

The World Happiness Report is an interdisciplinary study that catalogues the state of nation's economy, the psychology of its citizens, and national statistics among other factors. 

The report, first released by the United Nations in 2012, is notable for illustrating that personal happiness is not dependent solely on financial factors or material goods.

"Money matters, but money isn't everything," said Dr. Sachs. "Being poor really hurts [the perception of individual well- being]. Being wealthy helps but after a certain [income] level, the happiness gained from earning more functions on diminishing marginal returns--the pleasure from the extra dollar becomes less satisfying."

He said that after a certain income level, other factors become more important to the well- being of people including social support from friends and family, physical and mental health, personal freedom and values.

Dr. Sachs gave the example of the United States, which ranks 17th in the world in terms happiness, despite significant gains in per capita income over the last 40 years. "I live in the richest country in the world but we are not happy," said Dr. Sachs.

A trustworthy government is a big factor in achieving the happiness of citizens. "Governments have a responsibility and can certainly accomplish a lot. Even in uncertain times, the intentions of governments matter and trust is crucial. Citizens will go along with policies even if they disagree if the leadership has a vision and is transparent," said Dr. Sachs.

"Everything that the UAE is doing will lead to a happier world. I am one of many who is excited for Expo2020 and cannot wait to see how [the country] is achieving a vision of the future."  

While governments play a vital role in promoting happiness, Dr. Sachs believes that active citizenship is critical to achieving happiness. "Happiness can be achieved by being a good citizen, by participating, by actively trying to solve the great problems of today," he said.

"The world is a place of great opportunities, but there are problems. Issues related to climate change, energy crises will have to be solved by citizens in Dubai, in New York, in Beijing. Governments from around the world will have to engage with citizens, much like they are doing here [at the Government Summit] to solve these problems."

-Ends-

For further information, please contact:
Nedal Alasaad / Samer El Zein,
ASDA'A Burson-Marsteller,
Tel: (971 4) 4507600
Fax: (971 4) 4358040
Email: nedal.alasaad@bm.com ,samer.elzein@bm.com

© Press Release 2014