The 2025 World Happiness Report ranks Finland as the happiest country for the seventh consecutive year, followed by Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden. The index considers GDP, social support, life expectancy, and perceived corruption. Despite the ongoing conflict, Israel secured the eighth spot, while the United States fell to its lowest ranking at 24th. India ranked 118th, reflecting economic disparity and social challenges. Afghanistan remains the least happy nation due to political instability. This year’s report highlights the role of caring and sharing in well-being, emphasizing that stronger social bonds and generosity significantly contribute to happiness worldwide.
TRUMP VOWS TO REUNITE FAMILIES
US President Donald Trump pledged to help return thousands of Ukrainian children allegedly abducted by Russia since the 2022 invasion. During a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump discussed efforts to locate and bring back missing children. However, irony surrounds his promise, as Elon Musk’s budget cuts led to the shutdown of the Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL), an organization that had been assisting in tracking abducted children. HRL, working with Ukraine’s Bring Kids Back UA initiative, estimated that over 20,000 children had been taken. Critics argue that Musk’s cost-cutting measures may hinder efforts to reunite these children with their families.
CANADA CONDEMNS CHINA’S EXECUTIONS
Canada has strongly condemned China for executing four Canadian citizens, calling the act “irreversible and inconsistent with basic human dignity.” Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly revealed that Ottawa had repeatedly urged Beijing for clemency, but their pleas were ignored. The Chinese embassy defended the executions, stating the individuals were convicted of drug-related crimes and underwent a fair trial. Canada, a staunch opponent of capital punishment, continues to assist the victims’ families. The diplomatic rift between the two nations deepens as Canada urges China to respect human rights and judicial fairness.
UK HOSTS MILITARY LEADERS’ SUMMIT
The UK is hosting a high-level military meeting to discuss a proposed Western-led peacekeeping force for Ukraine. Over 20 countries are involved, with Britain and France leading discussions. Prime Minister Keir Starmer will attend after visiting Barrow to oversee nuclear submarine construction. Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard emphasized the need for a “credible force” to secure lasting peace. However, major challenges remain, including Russia’s firm opposition and the US’s reluctance to provide air support. Meanwhile, Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to NATO and its independent nuclear deterrent, reinforcing its strategic role in European security.
INDONESIA EXPANDS MILITARY’S CIVILIAN ROLE
Indonesia’s parliament has passed a controversial bill expanding military involvement in government, allowing personnel to hold positions in 14 agencies, up from 10. The law, backed by President Prabowo Subianto—a former general under Suharto’s dictatorship—raises concerns about a return to authoritarian rule. Civil rights groups fear increased military power could lead to human rights violations and reduced accountability. Protests erupted outside parliament, with security forces removing demonstrators. The government justifies the law as necessary for national security in a shifting geopolitical landscape. Critics, however, warn it could undermine democracy and civilian control over the military.
