According to the World Happiness Report 2018, issued yesterday, Malta has climbed several notches to make it to 22nd place in the annual index of happiness in 156 countries across the world.

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The main reasons according to the landmark survey, written by a group of independent experts, were GDP per capita and social support, with healthy life expectancy coming a close third. 

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Malta’s ranking supersedes that of France, Italy and Spain. Finland topped the ranking, with its neighbours, Norway, Denmark and Iceland, coming in the top 5. 

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The report was released at a launch event at the Pontifical Academy of Sciences in the Vatican, and Gallup Inc. provided data used in connection with the preparation of the World Happiness Report. 

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An event connected to the research will also take place on 20th March, the International Day of Happiness at the United Nations.