World Happiness Report for Sweden 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Sweden: 4
- Happiness Score Sweden:7.344
Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.
What is the Happiness Index?
The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.
How is the Happiness Index Calculated?
The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.
In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:
- GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
- Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
- Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
- Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
- Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
- Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.
These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.
What Does the Happiness Index Affect?
The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:
- Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
- Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
- Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
- Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.
By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.
Short information
- Abbreviation of Sweden. SE.
Sweden is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy
- known for its rich cultural history, including famous authors such as Astrid Lindgren and Stieg Larsson
- a major player in the global economy, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability
- Best Times to Visit: The summer months (June-August) are ideal for enjoying the warm weather and long daylight hours, but winters can be magical with opportunities for winter sports and witnessing the Northern Lights.
- Cultural Etiquette: Swedes value punctuality, personal space, and environmental consciousness. Respect queues, avoid excessive noise, and be mindful of recycling and sustainability practices.
- Safety Precautions: Sweden is generally a safe destination, but exercise caution in larger cities and tourist areas, especially at night. Avoid confrontations and keep valuables secure.
- Must-See Landmarks: Visit the Gamla Stan (Old Town) in Stockholm, explore the Vasa Museum and the Drottningholm Palace, and witness the Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland.
- Culinary Experiences: Indulge in traditional Swedish dishes like köttbullar (meatballs), gravlax (cured salmon), and kanelbullar (cinnamon buns). Don’t miss the opportunity to try the unique regional cuisines and local delicacies.
- Cost of Living: While Sweden has a relatively high cost of living, salaries are also higher, and the robust social welfare system offsets many expenses.
- Housing: Finding affordable housing, especially in major cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg, can be challenging. Be prepared for long waiting lists and high rental costs.
- Healthcare: Sweden has an excellent universal healthcare system, with high-quality medical facilities and affordable costs for residents.
- Education: Sweden’s education system is highly regarded, with free public schooling and affordable higher education options.
- Lifestyle: Swedes value work-life balance, environmental consciousness, and an active outdoor lifestyle. Be prepared to embrace the Swedish cultural norms of lagom (moderation), fika (coffee breaks), and an appreciation for nature.
- Legal Requirements: Non-EU citizens will need a valid residence and work permit to live and work in Sweden. Be familiar with the immigration and tax regulations.
- Business Culture: Swedish business culture values equality, consensus-building, and a flat organizational structure. Punctuality, honesty, and directness are highly valued.
- Economic Climate: Sweden has a robust and diversified economy, with strengths in industries like automotive, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.
- Key Industries: Major industries include machinery, motor vehicles, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, iron and steel, precision equipment, and renewable energy.
- Legal Frameworks: Sweden has a stable legal system and is known for its transparency and low levels of corruption. Familiarize yourself with regulations related to taxation, labor laws, and environmental standards.
- Negotiation Strategies: Swedish negotiations tend to be direct and focused on finding mutually beneficial solutions. Be prepared to provide detailed information and respect the consensus-building process.
- Building Relationships: Building trust and long-term relationships is crucial in Swedish business culture. Maintain open communication, respect hierarchies, and be prepared for a slower decision-making process.
- Educational System: Sweden has a highly regarded education system, with tuition-free public universities for Swedish and EU/EEA students. International students may need to pay tuition fees.
- Top Universities: Notable universities include Uppsala University, Lund University, Stockholm University, and the KTH Royal Institute of Technology.
- Student Life: Swedish universities offer a vibrant student life, with numerous student organizations, activities, and opportunities to experience Swedish culture.
- Visa Requirements: Non-EU/EEA students will need to obtain a student residence permit to study in Sweden. The application process should be started well in advance.
- International Student Opportunities: Many universities offer programs taught in English and provide support services for international students, including housing assistance and language courses.
Sweden – A Comprehensive Overview
Early History
Sweden’s history can be traced back to the Stone Age, with evidence of human settlements dating back to around 8,000 BC. The Scandinavian region was inhabited by various Germanic tribes, including the Swedes, Geats, and Gutes. These tribes were known for their seafaring skills and formed a vital part of the Viking culture that dominated the region during the 8th to 11th centuries.
Kingdoms and Empires
The Swedish Kingdom emerged in the 6th century, and the first known Swedish monarch was King Eric the Victorious, who reigned from around 970 to 995 AD. The Swedish Empire reached its peak during the 17th century under the rule of Gustavus Adolphus and his successors, who expanded Swedish territories across the Baltic region and parts of modern-day Germany and Poland.
Independence and Modern Era
Sweden achieved independence from the Kalmar Union in 1523 and adopted Protestantism during the 16th century. The country remained neutral during both World Wars, which allowed it to preserve its sovereignty and avoid significant destruction. In the post-war period, Sweden emerged as a model welfare state, implementing progressive social policies and maintaining a strong economy based on industries like forestry, mining, and automotive manufacturing.
Current Political Situation
Sweden is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The current monarch is King Carl XVI Gustaf, while the head of government is the Prime Minister, currently Ulf Kristersson. Sweden is a member of the European Union but has opted to retain its own currency, the Swedish Krona.
International Relations
Sweden has long maintained a policy of neutrality and promotes international cooperation through organizations like the United Nations. It has strong ties with its Scandinavian neighbors and is a member of the European Union. Sweden advocates for human rights, environmental protection, and global development.
Human Development and Economy
Sweden consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for human development, with high standards of living, quality education, and robust social welfare programs. Its economy is export-driven, with major industries including machinery, motor vehicles, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.
Cultural Highlights
Sweden is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditions like the Midsummer celebrations, traditional folk music and handicrafts, and the iconic Swedish design aesthetic. The country has contributed significantly to literature, with renowned authors like August Strindberg and Astrid Lindgren. Swedish cuisine, featuring dishes like Swedish meatballs, pickled herring, and cinnamon buns, is also internationally renowned.
Challenges and Opportunities
Some of the key challenges facing Sweden include managing its aging population, integrating immigrant communities, and addressing climate change. Opportunities lie in further promoting sustainable energy solutions, maintaining a competitive knowledge-based economy, and leveraging its reputation as a progressive and innovative nation.
Travel Tips for Sweden
Sweden offers a unique blend of modern cities, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some essential travel tips:
Living in Sweden
Sweden offers a high quality of life and a progressive society, making it an attractive destination for expats. Here are some practical tips for living in Sweden:
Doing Business in Sweden
Sweden offers a stable and business-friendly environment with a skilled workforce and a strong focus on innovation. Here’s a guide for conducting business in Sweden:
Studying in Sweden
Sweden offers an excellent education system and a welcoming environment for international students. Here are some guidelines for studying in Sweden:
Main facts
1. Location
Sweden is a Scandinavian country located in Northern Europe. It borders Norway to the west, Finland to the northeast, and the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Bothnia to the east and south, respectively. The country is situated on the Scandinavian Peninsula, sharing the landmass with Norway.
2. Map References
Sweden is located in the Northern European continent and the Scandinavian region.
3. Area – Comparative
Sweden has a total area of 450,295 square kilometers (173,860 square miles), making it slightly larger than the state of California.
4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Sweden has land borders with the following countries:
5. Coastline
Sweden has a total coastline of 3,218 kilometers (2,000 miles), including numerous islands and inlets along the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia.
6. Maritime Claims
Sweden claims the following maritime zones:
- Territorial sea: 12 nautical miles
- Exclusive economic zone: 200 nautical miles
- Continental shelf: 200 meters depth or to the depth of exploitation
7. Climate
Sweden has a temperate climate with cool, cloudy, and moderately wet conditions. The northern regions experience a subarctic climate, while the southern areas have an oceanic climate influenced by the Gulf Stream.
8. Terrain
Sweden’s terrain is predominantly flat or gently rolling lowlands, with mountains in the western regions. Major features include the Scandinavian Mountains along the Norwegian border, the Norrland terrain with its extensive forests, and the Småland plateau in the south.
9. Elevation Extremes
The highest point in Sweden is Kebnekaise at 2,111 meters (6,926 feet), located in the Scandinavian Mountains. The lowest point is the Baltic Sea at 0 meters (0 feet).
10. Natural Resources
Sweden’s major natural resources include iron ore, copper, lead, zinc, gold, silver, tungsten, uranium, barite, feldspar, precious and semi-precious stones, and forests.
11. Major Bodies of Water
Notable bodies of water in Sweden include the Gulf of Bothnia and the Baltic Sea (shared with several other countries), as well as numerous lakes such as Vänern, Vättern, Mälaren, and Hjälmaren.
12. Natural Hazards
Common natural hazards in Sweden include ice floes and occasional storms and forest fires.
13. Geography – Notes
Sweden’s geography is characterized by its northern location, extensive coastline, and diverse landscapes ranging from mountains to forests and lakes. The country has a strong environmental commitment, with a significant portion of its land area designated as national parks and nature reserves.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 68.90%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 43,252. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
- Agricultural Land( %). 7.40%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 60.12816118.643501.
- Capital: The capital of Sweden is Stockholm
- Major Cities:
- Stockholm – Population: 975,904
- Gothenburg – Population: 580,000
- Malmo – Population: 347,949
- Uppsala – Population: 158,000
- Linkoping – Population: 153,000
- Population: 10,285,453
- Area(Km2): 450295
- Population Density( P/Km²):25. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:46
- Official Language(s):Sweden is Swedish 100%.
- Currency: SEK
Main Economic Indicators
Sweden has a prosperous and open economy that relies heavily on exports of goods and services. It is a mixed economy, with a combination of market capitalism and an extensive welfare system. The Swedish economy is highly diversified, with significant contributions from various sectors, including manufacturing, services, and natural resources. However, it faces challenges such as an aging population, high tax rates, and the need to maintain competitiveness in a globalized market.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
2021: 2.2% (Source: Statistics Sweden)
2022: 8.6% (Source: Statistics Sweden)
Credit Ratings
Fitch: AAA (Stable Outlook)
Moody’s: Aaa (Stable Outlook)
Standard & Poor’s: AAA (Stable Outlook)
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 1.1%
Industry: 24.8%
Services: 74.1%
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Barley, wheat, sugar beets, milk
Industrial Products: Machinery, motor vehicles, paper products, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications equipment, aerospace products
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 5.4 million (2021 estimate)
Comparative Ranking: 77th largest labor force in the world
Current Account Balance
Current Account Balance: $26.55 billion (2022 estimate)
Comparative Ranking: 17th highest current account balance in the world
Exports and Imports
Exports: $191.9 billion (2022 estimate)
Key Partners: Germany, Norway, United States, Denmark, Finland
Main Commodities: Machinery, motor vehicles, paper products, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications equipment, aerospace products
Imports: $193.2 billion (2022 estimate)
Key Partners: Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, China
Main Commodities: Machinery, petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, motor vehicles, iron and steel products, foodstuffs
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves: $60.7 billion (as of December 2022)
Gold Reserves: 125.7 tons (as of January 2023)
- GDP (Current US$):$530,832,908,738. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
- Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 27.90%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
- Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 49.10%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
- Gasoline Price. $1.42. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
- Minimum wage. . It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
- Unemployment Rate (%): 6.48%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.
Social Indicators
National Identity
Noun: Swede(s)
Adjective: Swedish
Ethnic Groups
- Swedish 80.9%
- Syrian 1.8%
- Finnish 1.4%
- Iraqi 1.4%
- Other 14.5%
Religions
- Church of Sweden (Lutheran) 57.7%
- Other Christian 2.5%
- Muslim 8.1%
- Other 1.7%
- None 30%
Age Structure
- 0-14 years: 16.77%
- 15-64 years: 61.45%
- 65 years and over: 21.78%
Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 63.1
Youth dependency ratio: 27.3
Elderly dependency ratio: 35.8
Median Age
Total: 41.1 years
Male: 40.1 years
Female: 42.1 years
Lifestyle Indicators
- Obesity rate: 20.6% of the adult population
- Alcohol consumption: 9.8 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
- Tobacco use: 11% of adults smoke tobacco daily
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 82.5. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
- Literacy Rate (% of adults): 99%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
- Birth Rate:11.4. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
- Death Rate:9. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
- Fertility Rate: 1.76. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
- Internet Users (% of population): 91.3%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
- Urban Population: 9,021,165. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
- Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):15.20%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.
Infrastructure and Services
Military and Security Forces
Sweden’s military is composed of the following branches:
- Swedish Army: Responsible for land operations and territorial defense.
- Swedish Air Force: Handles aerial operations, air defense, and transport.
- Swedish Navy: Conducts maritime operations, coastal defense, and naval warfare.
- Swedish Amphibious Corps: An elite amphibious unit capable of conducting special operations.
The Swedish Police Service is responsible for maintaining public order and combating crime within the country.
Military Expenditures
Sweden’s military expenditures as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:
- 2021: 1.35%
- 2020: 1.26%
- 2019: 1.21%
- 2018: 1.16%
- 2017: 1.14%
Sweden ranks among the top 30 countries globally in terms of military spending.
Personnel Strengths
Sweden has a total active-duty military personnel strength of approximately 22,000, with the following breakdown:
- Army: 12,000
- Air Force: 3,000
- Navy: 4,000
- Other Services: 3,000
The Swedish Home Guard, a national militia, has an additional strength of around 22,000 personnel.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Sweden’s military equipment includes a mix of domestically produced and imported hardware:
- Ground Forces: Stridsvagn 122 main battle tanks, CV90 infantry fighting vehicles, and Archer self-propelled howitzers.
- Air Forces: Saab JAS 39 Gripen multi-role fighter jets, Hercules C-130 transport aircraft, and Giraffe radars.
- Naval Forces: Visby-class stealth corvettes, Gotland-class submarines, and Koster-class mine countermeasures vessels.
Sweden is currently pursuing the acquisition of Patriot air defense systems and the development of next-generation Gripen E/F fighter jets.
Military Service Age and Obligation
Sweden has suspended mandatory military service since 2010. However, all Swedish citizens between the ages of 16 and 70 are obligated to serve in the event of a national emergency or war.
Voluntary military service is available for both men and women between the ages of 18 and 47, with a service commitment of 7.5 to 15 months.
Military Deployments
Sweden currently has the following significant overseas military deployments:
- United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL): Around 200 personnel.
- NATO Mission in Kosovo (KFOR): Approximately 35 personnel.
- European Union Training Mission in Mali (EUTM Mali): Around 200 personnel.
Strategic Military Notes
Sweden’s defense strategy is focused on territorial defense, with a particular emphasis on the protection of the Baltic Sea region and the Arctic. The country maintains a policy of non-participation in military alliances during peacetime but reserves the right to seek support in the event of an armed attack.
Sweden actively contributes to international peacekeeping missions and has established partnerships with NATO through the Partnership for Peace program and the European Union’s Common Security and Defense Policy.
- Armed Forces Size: 24400. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
- Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 3.98
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 64.60%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.