Morocco's Position in the Global Happiness Landscape
In the recently released 2026 World Happiness Report, Morocco's ranking remains a cause for concern as it holds the 112th position out of 147 countries, reflecting a troubling stagnation in the nation's morale. This marks a significant decline from its peak ranking of 84th in 2016, a period that seems increasingly distant as the country grapples with ongoing challenges related to happiness and well-being. The report highlights a broader global trend: the happiness levels of young people have decreased markedly over the past 15 years, a phenomenon that resonates deeply within Morocco's societal fabric.
When examined within the context of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Morocco finds itself ranked 14th out of 18 countries. The rankings are led by Israel, which occupies the 8th position globally, followed by the United Arab Emirates at 21st and Saudi Arabia at 22nd. Notably, Morocco's ranking of 112th places it ahead of several nations, including Jordan and Egypt, yet it underscores a pressing need for improvements in national well-being.
The Role of Digital Platforms in Shaping Happiness
The 2026 World Happiness Report, prepared by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, sheds light on the intricate relationship between social media use and happiness, especially among the youth. As digital platforms increasingly permeate daily life, the report emphasizes that while countries like Finland and Denmark continue to rank high in happiness, Moroccan youth face rising challenges linked to their digital consumption patterns. Interestingly, while intensive use of social media is reported among 20% to 40% of the adult populations in the MENA region, Morocco seems to lag behind with only about 15% engaged in heavy usage. This discrepancy raises questions about the factors influencing well-being in the country.
The report reveals a stark contrast between nations, showcasing Lebanon’s significant increase in heavy social media users, from 22% to 45% over a few years, in stark contrast to Morocco’s stagnation. Such findings highlight the critical role that social and economic factors play in shaping individual well-being. Furthermore, the data indicates that intensive social media users are more prone to stress and depression, often feeling worse off compared to previous generations. This is particularly true for specific demographics, such as Generation Z, who are increasingly influenced by social media trends and comparisons.
As Morocco navigates these complex issues, it becomes evident that nearly 100% of households are now equipped with smartphones, yet the implications of this technological advancement pose both opportunities and challenges for national happiness. The findings from this report not only reflect the current state of happiness in Morocco but also serve as a call to action for policymakers and society to address the underlying factors affecting mental health and happiness in an increasingly digital world.
As reported by en.yabiladi.com.
