Dutch children are again the happiest in the world

In UNICEF's latest index, Dutch children were chosen as the happiest children in the West. Family support, bicycle culture, low bullying, and egalitarian structure stand out...

Scraper SystemJune 02, 2026, 07:12 PM

Dutch children have once again stood out as the happiest children in the world among developed countries. In UNICEF's latest child welfare index published this week, the Netherlands maintained its top position in child happiness in the Western world. The country's overall happiness picture also supports this result. In the latest World Happiness Report, the Netherlands ranked as the fifth happiest country in the world after Finland, Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden. Researchers emphasize that Dutch children particularly excel in social relationships. The support they receive from family, friends, teachers, and classmates is seen as one of the strongest factors enhancing children's welfare. The widespread part-time work of parents, both women and men, in the country also provides children with more family closeness. Although it is noted that this arrangement is not possible for every family, it is stated that it contributes to children spending more time with their parents. The relative safety of Dutch cities for children is also among the notable factors. The city structure, planned on a human scale with limited traffic and widespread bicycle use, makes it easier for children to move independently from an early age. The bicycle is not only a means of transportation in the country's daily life but also a part of the childhood experience. Traveling by bicycle even in rainy weather is seen as a common sight in the Netherlands. The country ranks first in the world in the number of bicycles per capita, and despite being one of Europe's rainiest countries, this habit continues strongly. The low level of bullying in schools is another factor supporting child welfare. Additionally, the comprehensive ban on smartphones in Dutch schools is shown as one of the practices that reduce distraction in the school environment. Gender equality is also one of the factors contributing to children's happiness. Research shows that in countries with higher gender equality, both girls and boys are happier. It is stated that this situation produces positive results not only for girls but for all children. A connection is also made between economic equality and social support. It is reported that in countries with high inequality, even the wealthiest segments can be unhappier. Conversely, in more egalitarian societies, the strengthening of social support provides advantages for children's development. The Netherlands' relatively liberal social approach is also linked to children's well-being. In this culture that encourages open communication, families and schools prefer direct conversation with children rather than a challenging or prohibitive attitude. Experts emphasize the importance of children learning to recognize risks in the outside world and making healthy decisions. Managers of the Cultural Education Center in Rotterdam also stress the importance of children developing their own opinions and gaining decision-making skills. The cultural education programs carried out by the institution in schools aim to support children's imagination and personal development. A mother from Rotterdam also explains that in the country, it is highly valued for children to express their own views and grow up as free individuals. According to experts, this approach in the Netherlands strengthens child happiness permanently by combining family ties, school environment, city planning, and social support.

Dutch children are again the happiest in the world

In UNICEF's latest index, Dutch children were chosen as the happiest children in the West. Family support, bicycle culture, low bullying, and egalitarian structure stand out...