History of International Day of Happiness in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 20, 2026

International Day of Happiness is observed globally every year on March 20th. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly on June 28, 2012. The day aims to promote the idea that progress should be about increasing collective happiness and well-being, not just economic growth. It highlights the importance of happiness and well-being as universal goals and aspirations in the lives of human beings around the world and the significance of their recognition in public policy.

2006: Illien Starts Campaign

In 2006, Jayme Illien started his campaign at the United Nations with Luis Gallardo. This campaign encouraged the importance of happiness, well-being, and democracy.

July 2011: UN Resolution Passed

In July 2011, the United Nations General Assembly passed UN resolution 65/309, "Happiness Toward A Holistic Approach To Growth". This was initiated by then-Prime Minister Jigme Thinley of Bhutan, a country that has famously pursued the target of "Gross National Happiness" since the 1970s.

June 2012: General Assembly Resolution

On June 2012, the Resolution was adopted by the General Assembly.

June 2012: International Day of Happiness Established

On June 2012, the United Nations General Assembly established the International Day of Happiness.

2012: Illien's Campaign Ends

In 2012, Jayme Illien concluded his campaign at the United Nations, which he had been running since 2006. The campaign was to encourage the importance of happiness, well-being, and democracy.

2012: International Day of Happiness Officially Established

In 2012, the International Day of Happiness was officially established.

January 2013: Ban Ki-moon Addresses UN General Assembly

In January 2013, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon addressed the UN General Assembly, emphasizing the need for people to unite, address shared problems, and strive for a happier society.

2013: First Commemoration of International Day of Happiness

In 2013, the International Day of Happiness was first commemorated.

2015: United Nations Launches Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, the United Nations launched 17 Sustainable Development Goals focused on eradicating poverty, reducing inequality, and protecting the planet, all aimed at improving people's lives.

2022: Smiley Projections for International Day of Happiness

For the International Day of Happiness in 2022, smileys replicating the Ukrainian flag were projected onto buildings around the world, including New York, Los Angeles, London, Berlin, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Rome and Sydney, to display happiness and solidarity with Ukraine during the Russo-Ukrainian War.